Warren members attend Military Affairs Committee barbecue

Published Sept. 23, 2011
By Staff Sgt. Mike Tryon
90th Missile Wing Public Affairs

F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- This past weekend, several Mighty Ninety members met with key Cheyenne members for a Military Affairs Committee barbecue held in Frontier Park.

The MAC acts as a way for both the military and civilian communities to come together and work to enhance the relationship the base and city have with each other.

During the barbecue, Col. Christopher Coffelt, 90th Missile Wing commander, on behalf of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, presented Scott Meier, MAC chairman, with a signed lithograph of the Thunderbirds. The lithograph was presented to the MAC for their efforts to help ensure this year's air show was a success.

"I wanted to thank the Cheyenne MAC for an outstanding event Saturday," Coffelt said. "It's always great to gather with our community partners, and enjoy the food, fun and most importantly, build on the friendships between the community and military here."

The MAC members discussed various topics on ways to enhance the synergy both the military and civilian communities share. Along with discussing various topics, food and games were enjoyed by those attending.

"I think the MAC barbecue was an enormous success, despite Mother Nature's meager attempt to cool down the festivities," said Meier. "Ron Van Voast and his ranch hands, along with the Chamber staff far exceeded the success of last year's event.

"The food was fantastic, the music great and the games were fun," he added. "But the camaraderie and friendship was the best."

One of the games played saw members pairing up to perform a series of western-oriented tasks.

"We were hesitant in the beginning to compete, but once we got signed up and eyed up our competition, we knew we were in it to win it," said Lt. Col. Matthew Dillow, 321st Missile Squadron commander.

His partner for the event was Lt. Col. Trevor Flint, 90th Operations Group deputy commander.

"My serious roping skills, along with Matt's steadiness and keen horseshoe throwing abilities, made for an unstoppable duo of greatness," Flint said. "We are honored to get this coveted win for the Mighty Ninety and prove that our Wranglers and cowboy hats aren't just for show. It was lots of fun, and we appreciate our mission partners on the MAC and in the Cheyenne community for putting on this great event."

According to several MAC members, this year's event will be tough to top.

"This event certainly raised the bar for next year," Meier said. "But, I am sure we are up to the challenge. I want to extend a special 'Thank you' to the sponsors who made it all possible."

To view a slideshow from the barbecue, click here.