2022 brought challenges to the 14th Force Support Squadron to maintain its Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) mission at Columbus Air Force Base. As COVID cases decreased and people were anxious to get things back to normal, the challenge of replenishing the staffing of each FSS facility was no small task. With leadership changes mid-year, filling positions throughout the squadron has become a high priority. As a result, the workforce continues to grow to an acceptable level which has increased the efficiency and services FSS offers.
Col Pedro Matos took command of the Mission Support Group (MSG) in July and has brought a new energy and enthusiasm to the essential services including FSS.
In August, Mr. Damion Jones took the reigns of the 14th Force Support Squadron as its new Director. Mr. Jones’ passion for customer service and programs has produced a new sense of urgency in developing events and activities to serve the CAFB community better.
FSS pulled-off some incredible events and activities throughout 2022 which have set the stage for an even greater year in 2023. Below is a recap of some of the larger events:
March 26-27, FSS had the monumental task of supporting the Wings Over Columbus, Open House Air Show with sponsorship, promotions, civilian aerial acts, food, and entertainment. The 2022 show saw a record crowd of more than 60,000 in attendance that were dazzled by the USAF Thunderbirds.
In honor of Month of the Military Child, Youth Programs held Rockin’ the Block party at Venture 360 on April 29th. It featured inflatables, face painting, free pizza, games, snow cones, and touch-a-truck.
The Columbus Club hosted the Preacher Lawson Comedy Show June 11. The packed house was treated to great entertainment along with adult beverages.
On July 21st, FSS held the Summer Bash which involved several activities including a Dodgeball Tournament at the Fitness Center and a dog show, carnival rides, games, and food trucks at Venture 360.
The Fitness Center held a Triathlon on September 10th. It started at Independence Pool and included a bike race around Perimeter Road, and ended at the Columbus Club with the run.
The Mike Super Magic Show came to the Kaye Auditorium on October 11th presented by Air Force Entertainment. There was a great turnout and the crowd was treated to some amazing illusions.
On Halloween weekend, BooFest was a base-wide event including special Booowling at the bowling center, a Monster Bash adult party at the Columbus Club, a movie night featuring Hocus Pocus 2, a Zombie Mud Run, and at Venture 360: a Costume Contest for adults, children, and pets, and Trunk-or-Treat.
The December 17th, Breakfast with Santa was the final event of the year. The Columbus Club/Event Center was the venue. Santa arrived on a fire engine and listened to children’s wish list while parents took photos. There was a bazaar, breakfast, music, inflatables, and sleigh rides (horse-drawn carriage) for everyone to enjoy.