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Community shares time, dinner with enlisted Airmen

  • Published
  • By Christi Spargur
  • 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  The Belle-Scott Committee, the nation's oldest civic support group for a military installation and its personnel, as well as more than 200 civic leaders from the local area honored Joint Total Force Scott's enlisted corps on May 15 at the 58th Annual Belle-Scott Enlisted Dinner at Fischer's Restaurant in Belleville, Ill.

The dinner's sole intent was to provide members of the local community an opportunity to show their appreciation for the service and sacrifices made by JTF 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 175 enlisted servicemembers were treated to dinner and entertainment.

The evening began with the posting of the colors by the Scott Air Force Base Color Guard and the National Anthem sung by former St. Louis Cardinals Jackie Smith. A gourmet dinner menu of filet mignon was then served to the record breaking crowd of 350 civilian and military attendees.

After dinner, civic and military leaders set the theme for the evening by speaking about the community's support of Scott's enlisted corps.

"It is an honor to be here this evening," said Chairman Mark Kern, St. Clair County board chairman, "During every military campaign since World War I, Scott has played a pivotal role. We are fortunate to have you live in our community."

Mayor Mark Eckert of Belleville echoed the chairman's comments. He said the event is one 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.

"We look forward every day to having you in our community," said Mayor Eckert.

Chief Master Sgt. Jim Suttles, 375th Airlift Wing command chief, rose shortly thereafter and remarked the evening was the best community event he's experienced in his 27 years of service.

Following the tradition of the annual dinner, Senior Airman Allison Caldieraro, 375th AW command chief executive assistant, offered the enlisted response.

"Tonight's dinner marks the 58th year of this tradition - recognizing and honoring our military's strong, bright and dedicated enlisted members. You and your businesses do so much for us; words along cannot measure the wealth of your generosity and its effect on our ability to serve and defend this nation.

"From sponsoring our recognition programs, Airman dormitories, and scholarships to tributes like tonight's dinner, you have clearly shown your loyalty and continuous support to Scott," said Airman Caldieraro.

"It is with your continued encouragement, friendship, and support," said Airman Caldieraro, "that we are able to carry out our mission, and because of the community involvement, the local area becomes more of a home than just an address."

The annual Enlisted Dinner ended with a musical performance by the local Anita Rosamond Band.