LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Airmen from across Langley came out to celebrate the grand re-opening of the Airman's Attic during a ribbon cutting ceremony Aug. 18.
Col. Donald Kirkland, 633d Air Base Wing commander, officiated over the ceremony, cutting the ribbon alongside long-time volunteers Sara Andreano and Tech Sgt. Samuel Young, 1st Component Maintenance Squadron shop supervisor. Tech. Sgt. Beverly Lutz, Air Force Sergeant's Association Chapter 358 president, and approximately 30 other leaders and members of the Langley community were on hand for the ceremony.
Afterward, attendees socialized in the newly painted, spacious environment while enjoying snacks and refreshments.
"It is a 100 percent improvement," said Sergeant Young. "The atmosphere is lighter, cleaner, better flow of customers. I can't believe all the volunteers that helped out; not that I don't encourage it!" Sergeant Young has volunteered one to two hours almost daily for the past two and a half years at the Attic.
The Airman's Attic had been closed for two weeks while AFSA-rallied volunteers provided more than 16,800 man hours of renovations, working three-hour shifts for seven days. 300 volunteers installed new kitchen tiles, repainted aging walls, re-carpeted or power-washed floors, and removed unneeded walls and glass. More than $7,000 in funds financed new weather-proof drop-off bins installed near the entrance, as well various maintenance tools and cleaning equipment to keep the Attic looking good.
Halfway through the reception, Mrs. Andreano received an unexpected "Happy Birthday" song serenade from all the attendees, celebrating her recent 50th birthday and seven years of service to the Attic. She stood in the center blushing and smiling as she expressed an outpouring of appreciation.
"Thanks to everyone for everything. This is a great birthday present for me," she told volunteers. "Since working here for seven years, the Attic looks its best."
Many in attendance agreed about the new look of the shop.
"It looks more spacious. It's my third time here, I like to get the blues," said Senior Airman Jerome Thomason, 633d Communications Squadron, expressing his appreciation for the Attic's assortment of quality military clothing.
"I have been coming here twice a month," added Airman 1st Class Jarenlee Brown, 633d Force Support Squadron. "It looks more organized, more clean."
Airman Brown described how a computer he put together from Attic donations has helped him complete assignments for classes toward earning his Community College of the Air Force degree.
While the Attic has a fresh new look, it always needs helping hands.
"This is a program run by Airmen, for Airmen," said Sergeant Young. "We always need volunteers."
The Airman's Attic continues to serve the Langley community every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those capable of giving are encouraged to donate any used clothing, uniforms, furniture, toys and housewares.