Families of deployed members treated to fishing

Published March 28, 2007
By Tech. Sgt. Chuck Marsh
81st Training Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Back Bay awoke Saturday to the sounds of parents and children boarding a pair of pontoon boats at the Keesler Marina with fishing gear in hand.

The group of almost 30 family members of deployed personnel were split into two different boat crews to begin their adventure on the water.

"We had a good crowd," said Ernesto Alvendia, airman and family readiness center. "We offer events like this to let the families of deployed members know the base is here to help make the deployment a little easier."

This is the first time 2-year-old Saige Kirkbride's father, Troy Kirkbride, 334th Training Squadron, has been deployed. Her mom, Spring, said she was glad the airman and family readiness center offered events like this.

"Saige was having a lot of fun," said Mrs. Kirkbride, who's nine months pregnant. "The more we do, the less the children worry about daddy. For this being his first deployment, the children are taking it better than we thought."

After the groups returned from their time on the water, they were treated to hot dogs and burgers and were serenaded by the drum and bugle corps.

"We're going to play our best for you," said Michael Galloway, 336th TRS, to the families. "We're glad you're here having a great time fishing, and we're here to entertain you while you eat."

Alvendia said while the plan for the day was to have fun, the airman and family readiness center has other reasons for bringing families together for events like this each month.

"Doing kid-centered events like this is great because it gives the parents a break -- at least for a short while," he said. "We also want families to feel comfortable with us and to know they can come to the center if they need any help."

For more information on events for families of deployed personnel, call 377-2179.

Fishing trip