News

Team BLAZE members survive first enlisted combat dining in

  • Published
  • By Airman Class Daniel Lile
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Publin Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Team BLAZE enlisted members strapped on their oldest and most worn battle attire and took up arms of water warfare June 19 during the first-ever wing-wide enlisted combat dining in.

The warriors endured a grog, obstacle course, food and advanced water warfare. 

"I think the Airmen's favorite part of the CDI was getting to see every tier of our BLAZE Enlisted Command in a different light," said Tech. Sgt. Michael Satchell, Inspector General Management Internal Control Toolset and CDI Primary Committee Member. "We had the opportunity to relax with the Command Chief, Flight Chiefs, First Shirts, Superintendents, supervisors and fellow peers at a military function and still have fun while still being a professional."

Chief Master Sgt. Harry Hutchinson, 81st Training Wing Command Chief, was the guest speaker at the event and shared his past experiences at CDIs.

"I recall attending roughly four CDIs and three Dining Ins in my career," Hutchinson said. "I really enjoy when the warriors approach the Grog Bowl.  I always chuckle at the sequence of events and actions that ensue.  It's amusing how the smartest Airmen on the planet cannot follow a perceived simple set of rules, but their excitement speaks volumes."

CDIs allow Airmen to relax and focus on having fun while attending an official function.

"Events like Dining Ins allow Airmen to slow down and learn to see the forest through the trees," Hutchinson said. "We can't continuously load the wagons without tending to the workhorses.  My hats off to Columbus leadership for making time to showcase their thoroughbred team and the contributions of enlisted Airmen to producing pilots and advancing the fight."

CDIs are one of the Air Force's most honored traditions, and an experience many Airmen enjoy.

"I would definitely encourage Airmen at all levels to attend a CDI," Satchell said. "The CDI is truly a one-of-a-kind event.  It puts a unique spin on honoring our past as Airmen while fueling our future as a fighting force.  It is an experience that you will always hold on to.  It is an experience that will bond you as Airmen to each other.  The experience is truly unforgettable and so much fun."

The CDI concluded with a water war including water guns, a water pit and water balloons. Camaraderie was built as Airmen proudly defended their posts.

"It was an absolute pleasure fellowshipping with the men and women of Columbus AFB," Hutchinson said. "Witnessing the camaraderie and pride of team BLAZE reminds me why I still serve after all these years.  I am still amazed no matter where we are planted as Airmen, we bloom.  It's in our DNA.  Air Power!"