Offutt to host Enlisted Dining-Out

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Danielle L. Williams
  • 20th Intelligence Squadron
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. --  Formal military dinners have been a tradition throughout history. They date back hundreds of years, when militaries held feasts to celebrate victories and honor unit achievements. Today's Air Force holds true to this time honored tradition by gathering for formal dinners much like the militaries of the past. The Air Force uses two celebrations as the primary means of honoring this military tradition -- the dining-in and dining-out. 

Offutt is scheduled to host a dining-out Oct. 9 at the Patriot Club. Social hour begins at 6 p.m. and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to arrive at least 10 minutes early in accordance with the rules of the mess. Chief Master Sgt. Brian Hornback, 8th Air Force command chief, is slated to be the evening's guest speaker. 

The dining-in and dining-out represent the most formal aspects of Air Force social life. The dining-in is a formal event exclusively for military members of a particular wing, unit or organization. The dining-out is the newer version of this tradition, which includes spouses and guests. The dining-out offers civilians an opportunity to participate first-hand in military ceremonies. 

The primary purpose of a dining-out is to bring military members together in an atmosphere of camaraderie, fellowship and social rapport. The goal is to have a good time and enjoy the company of fellow Airmen. 

"For those who are new to the dining-out, I encourage them to come and experience this tradition first-hand," said Senior Master Sgt. James Langner, detachment chief for the Communication Support Element and Offutt's enlisted dining out committee chairman. "Come join in the festivities; you'll make memories that last a lifetime." 

"For those who have attended a dining-out in the past, encourage your fellow Airmen to join," he added. "Tell them of your past experiences and 'rules of the mess.'" 

He also recommended telling people that violators, those who break the rules, are subject to the wrath of the leaders of the mess -- the president and mister and madam vice. Most violators get sent to the infamous grog bowl. 

With the many challenges facing today's Airmen, the enlisted dining-out provides a pathway for the Air Force's story to be shared with other service members and their guests. This year's theme is Wingman-Warrior: A Tradition of Honor and A Legacy of Valor. 

"The Air Force is a major part of the joint fight in almost any contingency operation today," said Senior Master Sgt. Rachel Zeigler, superintendent of the 20th Intelligence Squadron and the president of Offutt's Top 3 organization. While forward deployed in theater alongside sister services, Airmen contribute critical pieces to the fight, Sergeant Zeigler said. 

"The Air Force is focused on developing warrior Airmen to face the challenges of the future," she added. A large part of this effort is honoring the legacy of all Airmen who served before those who serve today, Sergeant Zeigler said. 

"A tradition of honor and a legacy of valor isn't just a theme for a dining-out," she said. "It's the Air Force way of life." 

For the event, active-duty members should wear the mess dress or semi-formal dress uniform. Retired personnel may wear the mess dress or semi-formal uniform, as well as civilian attire. Civilians should wear appropriate black tie attire. 

Cost for the event will be $15 for E-4 and below, $20 for E-5 and E-6, and $25 for E-7 and above. Servicemembers may purchase tickets for civilian guests at equal cost. Club members receive a $3 discount. During the dining-out, patrons can select a chicken, beef or vegetarian entree. To purchase tickets, personnel are asked to contact their unit representative. 

For more information about Offutt's dining-out, call Sergeant Langner at 294-4838 or Master Sgt. Kevin Pawlik at 294-6994. For a complete list of unit dining-out representatives click here.