Silver Anniversary ball caps successful week of celebration

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Shane M. Phipps
  • 30th Space Wing Public Affairs

 Vandenberg recently celebrated the 30th Space Wing’s 25 years of existence with a week full of commemorative events, here, Nov. 14 through 19.

The Silver Anniversary began with a kick-off barbeque party at Cocheo Park, followed by heritage tours, which highlighted different units within the space wing -- and culminated with a ball and a USO Show Troupe performance. With volunteers working throughout the week to make the various events successful, the ball provided an opportunity for many to unwind and see their hard work come to fruition.

“I’ve been really invested in this event,” said Airman 1st Class Marissa Fortunato, 30th Force Support Squadron force management apprentice. “I was a main point of contact for selling tickets and coins and I helped do research for the tour that happened on Wednesday. In the beginning I was intimidated by it, but in the end I realized it was a big honor to help make it all a success. I did a lot of hard work and I was stressing out, but to be at the ball and know everything is done and has come together, has made it all worth it.”

For some, the ball proved a special opportunity to learn more about how their contributions fit into the space wing’s rich heritage.

“I really wanted to come the ball,” said Senior Airman Teonna Jenkins, 30th Medical Operations Squadron front desk clerk. “I’ve been on this base four years, and I wanted to check out an event like this that honors the wing’s accomplishments. It feels good to know how I play a role in something larger than myself, like this wing -- and I’m really impressed by all the work that went into making this a success.”

Rallying together, Airmen and spouses from all around base worked cohesively, determined to make the week and the ball a success.

“I was involved in the audio-visual part of the event,” said Tech. Sgt. Isaiah Miller, 532nd Training Squadron missile maintenance instructor. “We put together the slideshow that showcased the 25 years in review and we ensured the audio played correctly throughout the club. The other volunteer jobs involved selling tickets, decorating and coordinating all the props. It was a lot of work done by volunteers, which even included some spouses.”

The cocktail style gala offered the opportunity to meet, greet and ask questions of former 30th Space Wing commanders, dedicate a time capsule and enjoy a spread to include a wide variety of hors d’oeuvres and carving stations. Two live bands were also in attendance.

“I came to the ball because it sounded like it would be really cool,” said Senior Airman Rachel Ferry, 30th MDOS medical technician. “I’m excited to hear the panel of former commanders speak. I think it’s really special that we honor the past and that current Airmen can listen to the people who helped make the wing what it is today.”

With the 30th Space Wing’s historic legacy in the launch business, the ball also provided members a chance to take a moment and appreciate how far the wing has come over the years.

“I wanted to get involved because I work for a tenant unit and it’s nice to do things to get in touch with the wing,” said Miller. Our history is important in a place like this. We’ve been launching rockets and flying satellites out of here since the 50s. Even though some of that came before the 30th Space Wing, it’s important to remember that history because it’s what made the wing what it is today.”