Self-help efforts saves $50K

The Ceremonial Room, located at the Stripes Club, formerly used by the Barksdale Inn as a reception desk, was renovated to assist Barksdale Airmen with retirements, changes of command, promotions and commander’s calls. The new renovations provide seats for more than 200 people the walls showcase images of Barksdale’s past and present. The self-help renovation saved more than $50,000. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Jason McCasland)

Self-help efforts saves $50K

Published June 20, 2014
By Staff Sgt. Jason McCasland
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Recently the Barksdale Stripes Club staff worked more than 160 man-hours to complete a self-help renovation which saved more than $50,000.

The Ceremonial Room, formerly used by the Barksdale Inn as a reception desk, was renovated to assist Barksdale Airmen with retirements, changes of command, promotions and commander's calls.

"After lodging moved back into their main facility, we were left with an empty meeting room," said Tony Flowers, Barksdale Club general manager. "We decided to renovate the space to help compensate for the lack of space for these types of ceremonies at the main club."

The new renovation provides seating for more than 200 people and surrounds visitors with images of Barksdale's past and present.

"Several of the base groups and squadrons have donated something to the walls of the room," said Flowers. "Most of the project was completed with non-appropriated funds but several decorations and furniture were donated by groups such as the Chiefs Group, 2nd Bomb Wing, Eighth Air Force, and the Air Force Sergeants Association to name a few."

The new Ceremonial Room, since it's official opening, has more than 30 events scheduled. For more information or to schedule your event contact the catering department at 318-453-4751.