Club membership open to all Airmen Published June 18, 2009 By Senior Airman Alexandra M. Sandoval 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Airmen can sign up for the Barksdale Club now until August 15 for as low as $2 a month to receive many new benefits. When Airmen apply for the membership at the Barksdale Club the first three months are free and first six months are with zero percent introductory annual percentage rate. Airmen receive military free cash by earning two percent cash back on base services and eligible purchases from Army and Air Force Exchange Services. Members can also earn points my getting gas and shopping at the Barksdale Commissary. Members will also earn one percent cash back on eligible off base purchases. Club members are eligible to redeem points for cash back, gift cards and travel to include airline tickets, hotels and car rental. Members also receive discount on all meals given at the Barksdale Club to include special functions. Airmen are also eligible to win a free lunch at the club from a week up to a whole year. The prices for membership vary depending on the Airman's current rank costing up to $20. "In addition to the previously mentioned benefits, Air Force program, member's first. It ensures that all club members receive special pricing on all meals," said Kyle Hamaoka, 2d Force Support Squadron marketing director. "The Club frequently puts on members only meals and events or allows free admission to events for the member." The proceedings from club fees go back into the club and pay for variety of things ranging from administrative costs to new membership programs. Airmen can apply to become a club member by stopping by the Barksdale Club and filling out an application and the privileges begin immediately thereafter. Membership stays active until the member cancels or transfers their membership to a gaining base upon permanent change of station. Incoming personnel receive $25 in coupons upon arrival at the new base by transferring their membership. "When I was asked why being a club member was important, I was looking around the room of a group of retired officers," said Paul Gotshall, 2d FSS club manager. "They remembered a time when everyone went to the club after work, drank beer with their work buddies until their wives met them and then they all went to the dining room to eat. "These are different times," he continues. "We still have all those services but we have also tried to change with the times. We believe in taking care of our own and we do that by providing a safe venue for everyone and saving Airmen money. It is part of a military tradition that you cannot let fade away. We want Airmen to be part of the Air Force's long lasting heritage." The Stripes Club has recently added Nintendo Wii, Rock Band, a 109- inch big screen television. The Barksdale Club is receiving a total makeover with new serving equipment, new lighting, new floor coverings and new wall covering. For more information about becoming a club member, contact Paul Gotshall at 456-4926.