KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- In preparation for the Special Olympics summer games, Keesler hosted the Special Olympic athletes of Mississippi for the first time in almost three years.
From powerlifting, basketball, golf and more, Keesler staff and Airmen from around base prepared sports training environments for the athletes.
“Our job was to prepare our base for the athletes and staff,” said Capt. Patrick Noyes, 335th Training Squadron Force Support Training flight commander. “This will provide them with a comfortable environment, allowing them to practice at the best of their abilities.”
The weekend also included a softball game, with the Olympians challenging the “Chiefs and Eagles” softball team, comprised of Keesler leadership.
“It was a very energetic environment,” said Senior Master Sgt. Stacey Zawalski, 81st Medical Support Squadron medical logistics flight chief. “We were able to provide good competition for the athletes and embrace them into Air Force culture. It was a lot of fun for both sides.”
Keesler will host SOMS again in the summer time, where the athletes will compete to qualify for the summer games in Orlando, Florida.
“The training camp serves as an opportunity for both the athletes and our Airmen,” said Noyes. “The interaction with our community shows our Airmen the impact our community tie has on our mission.”
With around 60 athletes and 80 staff members participating in 10 events, Zawalski considers the weekend a success.
“All the teamwork and preparation from the volunteers made this weekend run very smoothly,” said Zawalski. “The athletes competed very hard and had a lot of fun doing so. The interaction was inspiring, and we are grateful we got to be a part of something so special.”