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Belle-Scott dinner unites servicemembers and community

  • Published
  • By Christi Spargur
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
BELLEVILLE, Ill. --  The Belle-Scott Committee, the nation's oldest civic support group for a military installation and its personnel, and civic leaders from the local area honored Team Scott's enlisted corps May 13 at the 60th Annual Belle-Scott Enlisted Dinner at Fischer's Restaurant in Belleville, Ill.

The dinner's sole purpose is to provide members of the local community an opportunity to show their appreciation for the service and sacrifices made by Team Scott's enlisted men and women. When purchasing tickets, each civic leader not only pays for their own meal but also one for an enlisted service member. This year, civic leaders hosted 100 Team Scott enlisted servicemembers.

After dinner, civic and military leaders addressed the audience.

"The mission of Scott is immense," said Chairman Mark Kern, St. Clair County board chairman, "The fact that you are part of our community makes us proud. We appreciate Scott being here, and we appreciate you."

Mayor Mark Eckert of Belleville echoed the chairman's comments. He said the event is one of his favorite nights each year. He also said he enjoyed the fellowship, the conversations, and the camaraderie with Scott's fine, young men and women. Having a son and daughter-in-law in the Army with the daughter-in-law currently deployed, Mayor Eckert acknowledged the sacrifices servicemembers make.

"All of us in Belleville and the surrounding communities are so very proud of you," said Mayor Eckert. "We thank you for what you do for us and the world everyday."

Speaking to Team Scott's enlisted corps, Col. Gary Goldstone, 375th Air Mobility Wing commander, said, "To all the enlisted men and women here tonight, it is important to know why you are here. You are here because the Belle-Scott Committee and local civic leaders cared about the servicemembers who came before you just as they care about those who are serving now--you. Tonight, we are gathered to pay tribute to you.

"Team Scott's enlisted corps, I want you to understand this tribute is not just for one night. The Belle-Scott Committee's commitment to Team Scott lasts throughout the year. ...Their concern for you is genuine. Their commitment to supporting you is real."

As a special highlight to the 60th year of the Enlisted Dinner tradition, retired Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Sam Parish provided the enlisted response. "The first Belle-Scott dinner I attended was in 1972," said CMSAF Parish. "Times have changed. Today we're a proud nation, and we can wear our uniform with pride. Some of you in the audience still remember when that wasn't the case.

"Today we have a nation that holds its military to high esteem. The demands of their service are unlike those of any profession. Many sacrifices have been made."
He ended his remarks by emphasizing the importance of the public's support to its military.

In addition to CMSAF Parish's participation, a commemorative coin was created to celebrate the dinner's 60th anniversary. The front side of the coin represents the Belle-Scott Committee's heritage. Symbolizing the strong relationships between Scott Air Force Base and the local community, the back side depicts two arms in a handshake, one dressed in a civilian business suit and the other in military uniform.