USAF Honor Guard unveils resiliency room

Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Air Force Honor Guard servicemembers unveiled new space to recharge and unwind Nov.2 at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the resiliency room, on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C. The day room is complete with two new flat screen televisions, an XBox gaming system, three rows of new recliners, and a ping pong table.

"Today's ribbon cutting ceremony is really the culmination of many months of work," said Col. Gina Humble, 11th Operations Group commander. "Starting in April, the USO pledged its commitment to improving the quality of life of our Airmen by creating this resiliency room where they can recharge during their downtime."

A number of top leaders from JBAB and Joint Base Andrews, Md., were on hand to witness the event, including Maj. Gen. Darren W. McDew, Air Force District of Washington commander, Navy Capt. Anthony T. Calandra, JBAB commander, and Air Force Col. Roy-Alan Agustin, JBAB vice commander.

"It has really been an honor to work alongside such like-minded people, who are really dedicated to some of the same core values that we hold: mission, integrity and excellence," said Humble. "Thanks to the USO, we are able to take better care of our Airmen as they carry out the mission of the United States Air Force Honor Guard."

The project has been in the works since April, and was recently completed due in great part to funding and support from the USO.

Those who attended the event were able to see all the refurbishments for themselves following the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

"It's definitely very nice," said Airman 1st Class Ted West as Airman 1st Class Robert Matuska agreed, both USAF Honor Guard ceremonial guardsmen. "Especially the recliners - those are the best part," said West.