Services initiative lets 'you be you'

27 Feb 2004 | James Coburn

A new initiative to introduce new airmen to the leisure and recreational activities available to them on base will kick off in March.

A joint venture between Air Education and Training Command and the Air Force Services Agency, the new UBU program lets “you be you.” It allows airmen basic through senior airmen the opportunity to select discounts in most services business activities and receive special membership opportunities once their training is complete.

Research has shown that many airmen are not aware of the programs and activities services has to offer until sometime during their second enlistment, said Frank Black, chief of Air Force clubs for the Air Force Services Agency in San Antonio.

“At some tech training bases, students were under the misconception that they couldn’t go bowling or play golf,” Mr. Black said. “It became apparent that we had to do a better job getting information out to these folks, making them aware of who Air Force Services is and what it is we do.”

Two videos showing airmen participating in sports and leisure activities have been produced to showcase the value and benefits of services activities as well as Air Force club membership. Services representatives will show the videos during briefings to basic military trainees and students in technical schools at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., and Goodfellow, Lackland and Sheppard Air Force bases in Texas.

The briefings also provide details about various services activities and operations, including information about bowling, golf, outdoor recreation, student and community centers, and information, ticket and travel offices.

Jerry Stanfill, 37th services division chief here, said the UBU program is a great opportunity for new airmen.

“Tech school students will get a UBU card which will entitle them to discounts and special programs designed just for them,” he said. “And of even greater long-term importance, these young airmen will be introduced, early on, to the many excellent quality-of-life programs and activities offered by Air Force Services.”

Similar UBU incentives will be offered later in 2004 to new officers, officials said. (Courtesy of AETC News Service)