LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Hearts hung from the entrance, lights were dim, decorations were red and white, the music was loud; it sounded like a party was ready to begin.
This was a scene from the Airmen Committed to Excellence Valentine's party at the Langley Community Center at Langley Air Force Base, Va., Feb. 16. ACE hosted the party in an effort engage the hundreds of junior Airmen on the base.
Members of ACE were encouraged to assist with the party by helping spread the word, help organize, or set up and clean up.
"We were there from beginning to end," said Senior Airman Jonathan Rubio Abreu, 633rd Medical Operations Squadron health services administrator and ACE vice president. "We raised the funds, found the location and promoted the party."
According to party-goer Airman 1st Class Karlo Cedeno, 633rd Surgical Operations Squadron radiology technician, one of the benefits of the event was being able to socialize outside of work.
"Being so busy at work, I find it difficult to meet new people, so I liked the opportunity," said Cedeno.
While people were enjoying the party, ACE members were working behind the scenes to ensure a successful evening. They gave the option of a safe ride home for Airmen after the party, and brought leftover food and drinks after the party to various Airmen working night shift and unable to attend.
One aspect that led to the success of the event was through promotion, said Rubio Abreu. ACE created an event on Facebook, sent out emails and handed out paper invitations.
ACE often holds additional social events such as a poker night, pizza party socials and bowling nights. It also promotes other ways to get involved through volunteer opportunities for Airmen such as Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, and Soldiers and Airmen Against Drunk Driving, or SAADD.
ACE's events not only provide a social atmosphere, but also help Airmen to network, said Rubio Abreu.
For Airmen interested in joining, ACE has a membership fee of 15 dollars and requires a membership form which can be obtained through any ACE executive member.