An ACE in the hole

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Clark Staehle
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  A program here helps improve the quality of life for Airmen by providing them with a place to gather and socialize. 

"Airmen Committed to Excellence has been established as a forum for motivated Airmen to interact, volunteer and participate in activities," said Airman 1st Class Rebekah Auld, 727th Air Mobility Squadron senior mission movement manager and ACE president. "Airmen Committed to Excellence provides Airmen, E-1 through E-4, an opportunity to actively take part in base and community activities while encouraging positive interaction between Airmen of all career fields." 

And, according to Master Sgt. Matthew Becker, 100th Mission Support Squadron career assistance advisor and ACE advisor, the program's basic principles are pretty cut and dry. 

"Basically, the Airmen Committed to Excellence program helps provide Airmen with a way to solicit ideas at their level to find out what they want to do for fun that doesn't involve things that can get them in trouble," Sergeant Becker, who is also the Air Force Sergeants' Association Chapter 1670 president, said. 

The program here was revived recently after it disbanded when several people moved to other bases last year. 

Two meetings are scheduled a month - one in the morning and one in the afternoon.
That would allow Airmen working any shift to get involved. 

We haven't actively participated in any events, however there are some volunteer opportunities soon, Airman Auld said. "Airmen Committed to Excellence is planning a fundraiser after the board is established, and the program has gained interest." 

Additionally, the program has made tentative plans for a trip to Alton Towers, an amusement park, and sports events with the ACE chapter at RAF Lakenheath.
The AFSA has a close relationship with ACE and helped the organization stand up. 

"Airmen Committed to Excellence falls under the Air Force Sergeants Association because we are not our own chartered organization," said Airman Auld. "While the program is building popularity and status, we will continue to work under AFSA. The Air Force Sergeants Association and Team 56 have been great with offering advice and assistance with ACE as it is revived." 

Basically AFSA helps fund ACE and gives them money for meetings and things they need, said Sergeant Becker. 

The ACE program also provides Airmen a way to enjoy themselves and interact with other Airmen at no cost. 

"This is an opportunity for Airmen to get involved and offer a positive image of themselves," Airman Auld said. "Airmen Committed to Excellence is open to all Airmen interested in voicing concerns, volunteering and adding insight where they may not always be able to."