COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Newcomers Orientation is a monthly event hosted by the 14th Force Support Squadron designed to welcome new Student Pilots and Airmen to the community. This month, the orientation included a new feature; Team 14 Community Connections!
This new business fair styled orientation will host local businesses and organizations who can introduce themselves to Airmen and their families and provide important information about the base, available resources, and how to stay safe and connected.
“A lot of the people in-processing are very new to the Air Force, and they don’t know what benefits and resources surround them,” said Emily Krawiec, 14th Force Support Squadron Marketing Director. “It’s a great way for small businesses to interact with us, and a great way for Airmen, spouses, and their family members to interact with the community.”
The fair is designed to help new members feel more at home by learning about the area around the base; facilitating local community members can help ease the transition.
“Coming to your first base is daunting for a lot of us... supporting our airmen starts the moment they arrive.” Said A1C Deajah Campbell, Religious Affairs Specialist. “This ensures everyone has the resources they need on and off base to thrive at Columbus.”
Team 14 Community Connection’s goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment, help newcomers and long-term residents alike build relationships, discover support networks, and foster a stronger sense of community both on and off base.
This version of Newcomers will be a regularly scheduled event as part of the orientation process, furthering an ongoing commitment to partnerships, people, and mission success here at Columbus AFB.