OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Patrons listen to retired Lt Gen. Walter E. Buchanan III the honorary guest speaker as he gives words of encouragement to military members, spouses and civilian guests at the 2009 Birthday Ball held at the Qwest Center March 28. Air Force Photo by Jeff Gates
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Patrons dance to the music of the Doc James Band featuring Honey as part of the festivities at the 2009 Birthday Ball held at the Qwest Center March 28. Air Force Photo by Jeff Gates
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Brig. Gen. James Jones, 55th Wing commander, retired Brig. Gen. Regis Urschler and Airman 1st Class Veronica Patton make the first cut in the traditional 55th Wing birthday cake. It is customary for a senior attendee and junior member to make the first cut. The 2009 Birthday Ball was held at the Qwest Center March 28. Air Force Photo by Jeff Gates
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Master Sgt. Maria Bell, 55th Security Forces Squadron is awarded the 55th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing Association Award of Excellence by retired Lt. Col. RJ McMahon, the first recipient of the award, during the 55th Wing Birthday Ball at the Qwest Center March 28. The Award of Excellence is annually presented to an individual, group or organization in the wing that exemplifies the basic tenents of the 55th SRW which are to foster and advance the ideals of patriotism and love of country. Air Force Photo by Jeff Gates
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Brig. Gen. James Jones, 55th Wing commander, presents the Hall of Fame Award to retired Col. William Ernst during the 55th Wing Birthday Ball at the Qwest Center March 28. The honor was bestowed upon Colonel Ernst for continued excellence and support of the 55th Wing. A plaque honoring the colonel will be displayed as part of the wing's Hall of Fame wall in the headquarters building. Air Force Photo by Jeff Gates
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Brig. Gen. James Jones, 55th Wing commander, announces the 55th Wing spouses past and present as honorary 55th Wing Hall of Fame members during the 55th Wing's annual Birthday Ball at the Qwest Center March 28. The wing's spouses were honored for their past, present and future contributions that have the Airmen of the "Fightin' Fifty-Fifth" ready to answer their nation's call. Air Force Photo by Jeff Gates
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Brig. Gen. James Jones, 55th Wing commander, presents the event's guest speaker retired Lt. Gen. Walter E. Buchanan III with a donation check to the KWVA Wounded Warrior Fund during the 2009 Birthday Ball at the Qwest Center March 28. Air Force Photo by Jeff Gates
OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Brig. Gen. James Jones, 55th Wing commander, presents an honorary shadow box to Dave Webber, master of ceremonies for the 55th Wing Birthday Ball at the Qwest Center March 28. He was presented the gift in appreciation for his tireless support of the 55th Wing and the local community. Air Force Photo by Jeff Gates