This past weekend, servicemen at the MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa partook in their annual family day. Each military wing in the Air Force has a family day every year where members' families get together for a day of food and fun, with MacDill's taking place last Saturday.
"It's just basically a get-together," said Pete Dean, Macdill's Public Affairs NCOIC. "We had about 900 folks come out. We had a bunch of food donated by a few local restaurants and we had a dunk booth. The folks around the wing nominated people of leadership positions to sit in the dunk booth for 20 minutes and everybody throws the ball at the target to dunk that individual. They use it as a fund raiser. If you want to elect someone you have to pay $1 a vote. It's a way for the wing to come together and invite their families out."
"We had a lot of support from the community," added Master Sgt. Vince Naputi, 927 AMXS crew chief and family day coordinator. "Just to name a few, we had Anthony's [Coal Fired Pizza] donate wings, Coca Cola [Beverages Florida LLC] donated sodas, the USO helped serve food. We couldn't have done it without them," he said.
The Buccaneers' street team made the trip out to the base, bringing Captain Fear, a handful of cheerleaders and several hands-on activities.
"They set up the quarterback experience where the kids and adult could throw the ball through targets," Dean added. "They also had the uniform try-outs so Jameis Winston's uniform was out there. People could put the jersey on with the shoulder pads and helmets. Captain Fear was out the whole time. He mingled with people in the crowd and took pictures. Some cheerleaders came out and they did the same. It was great."
In addition to the Bucs' street team, COO Brian Ford was present for the event.
"We have such an appreciation for what MacDill Air Force Base means to our community and beyond. Over the years, we have made a commitment to support the men and women of our military in any way we can and this was just another way to show our appreciation for what they do. Our relationship with the base and entire United States Armed Forces is very important to the Buccaneers organization."
Rain and wind rolled in early in the afternoon, but attendees were able to continue festivities indoors.
"Family day is a great time for Airmen and their families to share a moment during the UTA," said Col. Randy L. Bright, 927th Air Refueling Wing commander. "Without the support of our families, we wouldn't be able to function as well as we do. They're such a vital piece of our lives, having this event is one small way we are able to show how much they are appreciated."
For more information about Macdill Air Force Base, visit their website **HERE**.
