Capehart Pool to open this summer following local donation Published May 22, 2013 55th Wing Public Affairs OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- On April 30, the 55th Wing announced that in light of budgetary constraints due to the ongoing sequestration, the base pools would not be open this summer. However, the Nebraska Military Support Coalition and the Strategic Command Consultation Committee, two local military support groups, have offered to make a donation to the base's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Fund to offset the costs associated with opening the community pool. "I've been fortunate enough to serve in a few great communities, but I can honestly say the Bellevue-Omaha community never ceases to amaze me with their generosity and overall support," said Col. John Rauch, 55th Wing commander. "This past week I learned that once again when we were approached about a generous donation that would enable us to open the Capehart Pool." While the legal review and approval process regarding the donation are still being worked out, as long as the Air Force services experts accept, the gift of nearly $100,000 will enable the 55th Wing to take the necessary steps to re-open the pool. "I would like to personally thank the members of our community that made this happen," said Chief Master Sgt. William Thomaston, 55th Wing command chief. "Your incredible support is known throughout the Air Force, and thanks to you the members of Team Offutt and their families will now be able to enjoy a cool break from the mission and the hustle and bustle of their daily lives this summer." The NMSC is a non-profit organization comprised of community and area business leaders who work to ensure necessary resources and investments are in place to support the personnel and missions at Offutt. Formed in 1956 at the request of Gen. Curtis LeMay, commander of Strategic Air Command, the SCC is made up of between 25-to-30 members, and serves as an advisory group that focuses on building civilian-military relationships and on providing otherwise impossible quality-of-life improvements on base. "We are blessed to live in a community that truly goes above and beyond to support the men, women and families here at Team Offutt," Rauch said. "And I cannot thank them enough." If everything goes as planned with the repairs and hiring process, the 55th Force Support Squadron hopes to have the pool open in mid-June.