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The word ‘refuge’ is defined as “a place or situation providing safety or shelter.” This is exactly how the Airmen Refuge Council at Aviano Air Base wants The Refuge, located next to the Mensa on Area F, to be seen to all members of base.
The Refuge is a place for Airmen, especially those residing in the dorms, to gather for fun, comradery, or even just a break from the daily stresses of life.
“It’s just a place to come and relax and get away from your troubles. It’s where you can just talk and be human,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Ritchie, 31st Fighter Wing chaplain assistant.
With free snacks and beverages, the latest and greatest gaming systems, books, TVs, couches, and a relaxation room complete with three massage chairs, The Refuge is the perfect place for Airmen looking to enjoy themselves outside of work but don’t want to travel too far.
Ritchie explained, “We’re out to help boost single Airmen here on Area F. Some Airmen can’t always make it over to the Community Center on Area 1. This makes it an ideal place for them.”
All Refuge operations are due in part to the Airmen Refuge Council, with assistance from the 31st FW Chaplain Corps. Council members keep The Refuge running by stocking food and beverages, ensuring new activities are available, cleaning and organizing, and being available to help those wishing to host events there.
Airman 1st Class Andrew Otto, surveillance technician from the 606th Air Control Squadron, is one of the leaders of the council taking care of The Refuge. He explained that The Refuge is not only for those needing a break, but for those looking to help the base community, as well.
“I think it’s a great time to get involved. The concrete is still wet and anyone can come in with new ideas and change the place,” said Otto.
The Refuge is currently open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. but the council is hoping to expand operations as more people become available to help.
To assist the Airmen Refuge Council or for any further information about The Refuge and upcoming events, please contact the Aviano AB Chapel at +39 0434 30 5211 (Comm) or 314-632-5211 (DSN).
| Date Taken: | 08.15.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 08.15.2019 06:25 |
| Story ID: | 335948 |
| Location: | AVIANO AIR BASE, IT |
| Web Views: | 25 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, The Refuge: A place for Airmen, by Airmen, by TSgt Rebeccah Woodrow, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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