HICKAM AFB, HI -- Enlisted members of Team Hickam will soon be arming up and heading to the field. 

The field behind Mokulele Elementary School, that is, for the Team Hickam Enlisted Combat Dining In April 27 at 5 p.m. at Area 61. During the dining in, themed "Operation Wing Ding", in celebration of our AF heritage that began with General Henry H. "Hap" Arnold's "wing dings", the weapon of choice will be water guns.

"The combat dining in is the newest of the dining in traditions," said Master Sgt. John Reid, Pacific Air Forces. "It is an occasion to bring together members of a unit in an atmosphere of camaraderie, good fellowship, and social rapport. The basic idea is to enjoy yourself and the company."

This event will not only provide an entertaining social gathering, but also the opportunity to hear a message from guest speaker Chief Master Sgt. Paul Weseloh,13th Air Force command chief in this year's dining in.

"This is an opportunity to celebrate our enlisted heritage," said Sergeant Reid. "It is all about good clean fun and sharing something with your enlisted family. You create bonds that can never be broken."

The "clean" fun includes a challenge course and a grog bowl. Airmen will contend with the course after being sent to the grog. Also, combat-themed games such as target practice and grenade toss are rumored to be on site.

"These dining ins are good morale builders," said Tech. Sgt. Michael McCormick, 15th Airlift Wing Protocol, and past dining in attendee. "They build camaraderie, are a good time and a great way to blow off some steam."

For Airmen over 21, Airmen Against Drunk Driving volunteers will be available to offer a ride home.

The cost for the event is $5 for E1-E4 (with refund upon arrival), cost is $10 for E5-E9. Ticket price includes food and drink and a small memento to commemorate attendance.
For those who chose to drive to the event, parking will be available along the perimeter of the event, similar to the setup for the Hickam Carnival.

Limited ammunition can be purchased at the event in case attendees run out. All ammunition must be approved prior to entering the mess area. All weapons must contain water only.

Authorized uniforms for the Dining In are BDUs, DCUs and flight suits. Uniforms must meet standards per AFI 36-2903, but attendees are strongly advised not to wear their best set.

Face paint and other items such as web gear and armor are authorized but the uniform must not be altered to the point it is not serviceable or doesn't maintain standards.

The area will be muddy so bring a change of clothes and shoes for after the event. It would also be wise to cover any car interior to prevent possible staining.
For more information, contact Sergeant Reid at 449-5747.