Moody hosts first Air Force Ball in 40 years

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Olivia Dominique
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
Valdosta, Ga. --  Team Moody and guests filled the dance floor Sept. 14, 2012, for the first Air Force Ball hosted by Moody in 40 years.

This year's theme was "A Journey through 65 years of Air Force Heritage" in celebration of the Air Force's 65th Birthday.

The evening began with a social hour and transitioned into dinner where an in-flight movie about the Air Force and its aviation history was highlighted.

"We began to separate ourselves from the rest when the air became a separate battlefield," said U.S. Air Force Col. Billy Thompson, 23d Wing commander. "Our Air Force is as strong today as it's ever been."

The Air Force Ball is an annual Air Force-wide tradition that celebrates the heritage and history of the Air Force. This year, approximately 400 guests gathered at the James H. Rainwater Conference Center in Valdosta, Ga., to celebrate 65 years of its establishment.

"We've come a long way since the beginning," said Thompson. "I'm proud to be a part of an organization known for its commitment to integrity, service and excellence."

After dinner, there was a traditional cake cutting ceremony. It is a military tradition that the oldest and youngest person at the ceremony cut the first slice. The cake was cut by Airman 1st Class Brandon Sabin, 23d WG Public Affairs broadcaster, and Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Stephen Voyt, 23d WG chaplain.

Not only did the party recognize the Air Force as a whole, but it also acknowledged Airmen throughout the decades since its establishment who paved the way for Airmen today.

"It's the Airmen who have answered the call to fight and serve every day for our nation's freedom," said Thompson. "It's their commitment to the Air Force that ensures our growth to the full range of excellence that we exhibit across the globe every day."

After closing remarks from Col. Thompson, the Valdosta State University jazz combo alongside disc jockey Staff Sgt. Jamie Allen, 476th Maintenance Squadron crew chief, set the mood for dancing as Airmen and attendees crowded the dance floor.

The celebration of the Air Force Ball is to acknowledge the Air Force's achievements made over time. It is to also recognize that if it wasn't for those before us, the Air Force would not be where it stands today.

The ball ended with Master Sgt. John Lamp, 23 Component Maintenance Squadron first sergeant, leaving final words for the attendees to "Have a great time, after all it's a birthday party!"