Splatter Swamp paintball range re-opens

  • Published
  • By Airman First Class Brittany Barker
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  After being closed while moving to a new facility, the 23rd Services Squadron's Splatter Swamp paintball range has now reopened at its new location on Burma Road.

Sharing a common love for adventure and a strong competitive spirit, players simulate combat, using air guns to shoot paintballs filled with a colored gel at each other.

"I really enjoy the team-building aspect of paintball because it can improve communication and situational awareness," said Airman First Class Daniel Burden Jr., 23rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron electrical environmental apprentice.

Airman Burden has been playing for two years now, and participates in tournaments frequently.

"As I run to find cover behind a bunker, I can feel paintballs whizzing past my head," said Airman Burden, "My heart starts beating rapidly and my adrenaline shoots through the ceiling and all I can think is, 'man, paintball is cool.'

Team Moody members have the opportunity to experience the adrenaline rush on base at Splatter Swamp.

The facility operates a 260 foot by 190 foot wooded course with a wide variety of bunkers. Four additional courses are scheduled for construction, said Sonny Couture, 23rd SVS outdoor adventures manager.

"These new courses will include a speedball range with inflatable bunkers, an Alamo range with a defendable fort, a maze course made of netting, and a 'two-verses-two' range where small teams can play against each other," said Mr. Couture. "These improvements will provide a full experience for beginners and experts alike."

The 23rd SVS offers a full rental package including a gun, mask, tank, admission and 100 balls for $14.00. Carbon dioxide and pressurized air tank servicing are also available on-site.

Paintballers can use their own equipment at the range, but must purchase who their paintballs from Splatter Swamp.

The facility is open from 8 a.m. until dark every Saturday to military ID card holders and civilians, who are properly escorted onto base.

For groups and special events, Splatter Swamp is available for reservation every other weekday. To play on the field you must wear a full face mask and a muzzle guard to prevent accidental discharge. However, players can also bring or rent additional safety gear.

Players must be at least ten years of age or accompanied by an adult. No alcohol is allowed on the grounds.

For more information, contact the 23rd SVS at 257-2989.