Center gives junior enlisted place to spend off-duty time

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher S. Stoltz
  • Air University Public Affairs
Video game tournaments, pool tables, a movie theater with surround sound and slushies. All of these and more are provided at no cost to junior enlisted at the Airmen Ministry Center.

Founded about five years ago here at Maxwell, the Airmen Ministry Center is a place where Airmen E-4 and below can go for off-duty recreation. Free activities include video games, Internet access, movies, pool, volunteer opportunities and networking with other Airmen.

In addition to entertainment, the Airmen Ministry Center also supplies spiritual guidance and counseling.

"I help run the Airmen Ministry Center along with other chaplains to provide a place where Airmen can socially engage with one another," said Chaplain (Capt.) David Merrifield, 42nd Air Base Wing chapel. "The Ministry Center enhances the wingman concept beyond the mission and is a great program."

The center is free to Airmen and their spouses. Servicemembers can also volunteer at the Airmen Ministry Center as building managers.

"I love volunteering at the Airmen Ministry Center," said Staff Sgt. Jason M. Pedicord, 754th Electronic Systems Group. "It is almost like a unit here. We get to spend time off-duty with each other and it's like we are a family.

"We encourage Airmen to escape the dorms and come have some fun. We try to host as many events as possible and acquire the latest and greatest games."

The Airmen Ministry Center usually hosts events once a quarter.

"We love to provide for the Airmen here because we like to see them build rapport with one another," Captain Merrifield said. "However, our mission at the Airmen Ministry Center is simple. Reach, train and send. Reach Airmen, helping them make connections with each other. Train Airmen, using mentoring to create our next generation of Air Force leaders. And sending them into the world mentally and spiritually prepared."

The Airman Ministry Center is located in building 18 on the corner of Twining Street and Maxwell Boulevard.