Team Barksdale springs into action

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kristin High
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  With the days getting warmer and the flowers starting to bloom, spring is arriving with full force, and Team Barksdale members are able to participate in more local and nationwide activities.

The 2nd Force Support Squadron's Outdoor Recreation, and Information, Tickets and Travel offices host numerous events planned for the spring and summer months in addition to activities off base through non- Air Force affiliated companies.

"Outdoor Recreation staff hosts a variety of events including canoe trips, archery tournaments, family camping trips, backpacking and organized hikes through the beautiful surroundings of Barksdale and the tri-state area," said Caitlin Cook, 2 FSS Outdoor Recreation program manager.

Outdoor Recreation also offers horseback riding trips in Texas and is planning a zip-lining trip in May for Airmen in the dorm.

Barksdale children also have great opportunities available to them.

"Kid Fish is a big tournament in May we will be hosting for children to fish and win prizes," said Cook. "It's a fun event held annually for children up to age 16."

Other fishing tournaments usually occur a few times throughout the year, however customers can rent fishing equipment including life jackets and boats at anytime.

To register for tournaments or to fish on base, Team Barksdale members are required to have a state and base fishing licenses. The licenses are available through Natural Resources, FamCamp or the Eastside Shoppette.

Patrons for Outdoor Recreation can also rent camping equipment, bounce houses and party items, such as coolers, etc.

Those looking to plan fun trips to theme parks, sporting events and concerts may visit the ITT office for information, color-brochures and an abundance of discounted tickets.

"This spring the ITT office will be offering free trips for the dorm Airmen to Natchitoches and to Six Flags in Arlington, Texas," said Mary Baker, Arts and Crafts and ITT manager.

ITT works with many different companies that support the military and give significant discounts to Airmen and their families so they are able to do activities they might not be able to afford to do, she added.

The ITT office is available for all active-duty, guard and reserve members, civilian employees, retirees and dependents to purchase tickets.

For more information on upcoming activities contact Outdoor Recreation at 456-3426 or the ITT office at 456-1865. Families are also recommended to visit www.barksdaleservices.com for base events.