Barksdale celebrates Oktoberfest '09 Published Oct. 9, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Joseph Boals 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Barksdale celebrated its second-annual Oktoberfest on Oct. 2. The event was a joint effort hosted by the Company Grade Officers Council, the Barksdale Club and Army Air Force Exchange Service. The Barksdale Oktoberfest is based on the traditional German Oktoberfest, a 200 year-old festival held in Munich. The German event, which lasts 16 days leading up to the first Sunday in October, includes large amounts of hearty food, Bavarian delicacies and beer. "We try to bring a little bit of the European atmosphere to Barksdale," said Col. E. West Anderson, 8th Air Force (Air Forces Strategic) chief of staff. "It's a great morale boosting event for retirees down to newest enlisted Airmen. This is a big thank you to the community and stress relief and a great way to welcome in fall." It was Colonel Anderson's idea in a meeting of the CGOC that brought the Barksdale Oktoberfest to life. A determined effort by volunteers brought the festival to fruition. "Last year Colonel Anderson shared his vision of Oktoberfest and planning began in July," said Capt. Elizabeth Copeland, Oktoberfest committee president. "The results of the 2008 climate assessment listed Oktoberfest as the number one morale boosting event. We began planning in April for this year's event," Captain Copeland said. "I'm very thankful to 1st Lt. Jonathan Aevermann for handling logistics, things like tents and hooking up electricity. And thanks to our finance officers for helping with fundraising, ticket sales and setting up our bank account. Because of the success we are able to fund next year with only Oktoberfest funds." This year's celebration saw a return of German biers, an authentic German buffet including schnitzel, bratwurst and sauerkraut and music by Alpen-Musikanten, an authentic German Oompah band from Dallas. The band had just arrived from performing in Berlin's Oktoberfest celebration. "The event was livelier this year and the races were better," said Senior Airman Jared Cooke, 2d Communication Squadron. "I liked the new keg race. It's great for morale. Everybody gets together, shares some drinks, and have an awesome time." Since the event included alcohol, Airmen Against Drunk Driving volunteers were standing by and ready for anyone in need of a ride. "We're helping people out, making sure they don't drink and drive," said Airman 1st Class Shelly San Martin, AADD volunteer. "We're out here having a good time while helping out other Airmen. It's important to do this because we can't have DUIs and if we get to the opportunity to help out, why not? I think every Airman should do this. You're helping everyone." Planning for next year's Oktoberfest is underway.