Jetpack

Callum Kirchoff, son of U.S. Air Force Capts. Aaron and Meredith Kirchoff, shows off his costume as Jessica Edgar, Child Development Center II caregiver, holds him during the Energy Action Month costume contest at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Nov. 1, 2013. The three categories for the contest were most shocking, most creative and best use of recyclable materials, and Kirchoff’s costume won for most creative. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jarrod Grammel/Released)

Mascot

The 23d Wing mascot visits children at the Child Development Center II for Energy Action Month at Moody Air Force Base, Ga., Nov. 1, 2013. Energy Action Month is observed every October with the goal of promoting energy and water conservation awareness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jarrod Grammel/Released)

Costume contest caps Energy Action Month

Published Nov. 5, 2013
By Senior Airman Jarrod Grammel
23d Wing Public Affairs

MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Jetpacks made from recycled soda bottles and oversized candy bar packages made of recycled cardboard were a few of the costumes children wore for a costume contest that signified the end of Energy Action Month, Nov. 1 at Moody Air Force Base, Ga.

The costume contest was part of an effort by Moody for Energy Action Month, observed every October, aimed at putting awareness into action through the development of energy efficient and innovative practices.

"The Air Force is the second largest consumer of energy in the entire government," said U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Tyler Cannon, Moody Energy Action Month coordinator. "So we are trying to raise awareness on conserving energy. To continue the Air Force mission, we will need sustained energy."

This year's theme for Energy Action Month is "I am Air Force Energy," recognizing the role each Airman plays in helping the Air Force achieve its energy goals. The campaign is led by the Department of Energy to promote energy and water conservation.

According to one civil engineer Airman, little things Airmen can do make a big impact on conserving energy.

"It comes down to the concept of every little bit helps," said 1st Lt. Leif Lindblom, 23d Civil Engineer Squadron Readiness Flight officer. "It all adds up. If everybody does a little bit to help out, it compounds, and we start saving some major bucks.

"For example, if you leave an appliance plugged in, you're still using energy even if it's not on," he added. "So if you're not using something, unplug it from the wall. That all adds up."

The costume contest at the Child Development Center was one way Energy Action Month coordinators spread this message and other energy-saving tips. Cannon hopes that by starting with children, event coordinators can spread the message and educate them for the future.