Airmen, families can expect more changes coming to CAFB

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Keith Holcomb
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  During 2017, the 14th Mission Support Group worked to update facilities and infrastructure on the 6,013-acre Columbus Air Force Base; and there are more plans in 2018.

Thousands of dollars have been and continue to be put toward quality-of-life projects for base members and their families. The missions of the 14th Force Support Squadron, 14th Civil Engineer Squadron and 14th Contracting Squadron are invaluable when they work together to provide the base with new and impactful changes.

According to Alison Lewis, 14th Contracting Squadron Instructor Flight Chief, projects to be finalized in the coming year include the Fitness Center expansion and renovation, the School Age Youth Center Playground, and new equipment at Outdoor Recreation.

Tech Sgt. Christopher Palmer, 14th CONS Team Lead for Base Support Contracts, said some of the new equipment in Outdoor Recreation includes boats and mountain bikes.

Another large project coming to Columbus is the compete remodeling of the base Bowling Alley, which will include a modern look that Steven Huebner, 14th FSS Deputy Commander, said will hopefully revitalize the space.

As people make their way around base they may also spot the installment of workout stations along the Fit Trail. All of these projects provide Airmen and families activities to do during their free time.

“It really is all focused on providing high quality-of-life stuff for the Airmen here,” Palmer said.

Many of these projects are funded through numerous outlets that Air Education and Training Command will provide, allowing a majority of Columbus AFB’s projects to be possible.

“Our folks take pride in their job,” said Maj. Douglas Hickey, 14th FSS Commander. “As for me it’s an exciting time to be a part of the FSS because we are trying to do new things and make things better for the population.”

The 14th FSS has spearheaded multiple base wide projects to improve aspects in everyone’s experience during their time at Columbus AFB. Some of the completed projects over the past year include the BLAZE Commons remodeling, fire pit installations near the dormitories, and the youth center basketball court. Each of the projects targeted different areas where the 14th FSS saw a need for change.

“Everything we do here, we do for the Airmen and families,” Huebner said. “We give them everything we can to help them love being here at Columbus AFB, Mississippi.”

In order to take full advantage of the 14th MSG activities and programs that utilize these changes, follow their twitter here: @CAFBLiving or visit their website here: columbusafbliving.com.