HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- Reserve and active duty Airmen from the 419th and 388th Fighter Wings gathered in an aircraft hangar to celebrate an early Thanksgiving Nov. 23.
Hangar 37, normally used for maintenance on Hill’s fleet of F-16 and F-35 aircraft, was transformed into a dining room with tables set for hundreds of Airmen and their families.
Wing leaders teamed up with local civic leaders to serve turkey, sides, and dessert. Businesses surrounding Hill AFB made the feast possible with food contributions and meal preparation.
“We couldn’t do anything without our Airmen,” said Col. David Smith, 419th FW commander, before the festivities. “This day is all about you and your sacrifices.”
Smith noted that Airmen from the two fighter wings are deployed “365, 24/7,” including personnel who are currently serving overseas during the holidays.
“I can’t tell you how thankful I am for you and your families,” said Col. David Lyons, 388th FW commander. “I’m grateful for the sacrifices you’ve made as military members and spouses. I’m also very thankful for the accomplishments you’ve made this year. We needed to deliver, and we did.”
Lyons lauded the “team effort” behind achieving initial operational capability in August, when the Air Force declared the F-35 Lightning II combat-ready.
The feast was complete with holiday music and entertainment for children.