Crafting wooden masterpieces

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nicholas Benroth
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  As the smell of lumber and varnish floats through the air and as the sound of saws and drills ring through your ears, it can mean only one thing -- you have just entered the Moody wood shop.

Craftsmen at the wood shop, which is located in the Arts and Crafts Center, create an assortment of projects including retirement boxes, squadron projects and more for not just Moody members, but retirees and other bases.

"We have built and seen things in here that encompass almost every moment of someone's life," said James Connelly, 23rd Force Support Squadron master craftsman. "Starting with a baby carriage, then a wedding gift, a retirement plaque and even a case to hold an urn, something can be built for anyone."

The shop is staffed by two craftsmen, Connelly and John Fischbach Sr., who work on the projects the shop receives.

"This wood shop on base is one of only three among the bases in Air Combat Command," said Connelly. "We always have an assortment of projects going on, but we try to take on any project that comes through our door."

Each project is handmade and painted at the shop and if the project calls for it, they work closely with the framing and plaque shop in order to ensure the project is perfect.

"One of the major things we do for the wood shop is engravings with our laser engraver which can burn things like words or symbols into the wood," said Sam Enderle, 23rd FSS recreation assistant and engraver. "We can help them accomplish some of their more special projects with the tools we have."

Despite the available assistance, there are some who would rather grab a drill and safety glasses and get to work building their own projects.

"Here at the shop, anyone is welcome to come in and work on their own project," said Connelly. "We have just one requirement before they come here to work: that person must complete the safety class we hold."

Once someone takes the class they can use all the equipment for an hourly fee of $4, which includes glue, nails and other materials. The wood shop has a warehouse full of wood but people are free to bring their own as well.

The class is offered the first Saturday of every month and teaches students how to use each piece of equipment safely and effectively.

To contact the wood shop to sign up for the class, or in regards to making a project and available equipment, call 229-257-3945 or visit the shop Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.