Airmen take to the skies during hot air balloon adventure trip Published Dec. 4, 2013 By Airman Megan Friedl 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Fourteen young, single Airmen got a ride of a lifetime when they took to the sky in hot air balloons, Nov. 24. They flew over High Ridge, Mo., on a cold, clear day as part of the Single Airman's Initiative sponsored by Outdoor Recreation. The adventure began when the Airmen arrived at the sight of take off with the staff of "Balloons Over the Rainbow." There the crew set up the baskets and tested the flames of the burner that would keep them afloat throughout the ride. The balloons were soon unraveled and filled with air. Airmen climbed into the baskets and were lifted into the sky. "It felt as if I was standing still and the earth was turning below me," said Garry Green, Outdoor Recreation's Adventure Program director. "I was fascinated by the incredible quietness and serenity of it." Green organizes and plans the Single Airman's Initiative trips, which he believes is good for a young person's morale. "The program allows them to experience things they otherwise would not have a chance to do," said Green. "It helps them socialize and not simply sit in the dorms after duty. It also is a great way to show our Airmen and their families that the Air Force provides a great deal of support to those who have made the vow to serve their country." Once the trip came to an end, the balloons were carefully and strategically put away. "I liked everything about the hot air balloon ride," said Senior Airman Julie McGuire, 435th Supply Chain Operations Squadron. "I liked learning about what it takes to prepare for the balloon ride, the ride itself and afterwards." Keith Fear, the company's owner, made a toast and explained how hot air ballooning got started. "Hot air ballooning began in 1783 in France by Joseph and Etienne Montgolfier. Their belief was that the smoke generated the lift needed to fly, not the heat, so they built the smokiest, most rancid fires they could." On their flights, the Montgolfiers carried a bottle of champagne with them, not to drink but to appease the farmers who wanted to destroy the "fire breathing dragon" that was invading their farms. That is why today, after landing safely back onto the ground hot air ballooners celebrate with champagne or sparkling juice. The Airmen received a souvenir champagne glass along with a flight certificate and pin to help them remember their unforgettable trip. "We take great pride in providing the highest quality trips and adventures in a controlled environment," said Green. "Our airmen and their families can rest assured that they will be well taken care of, have a fun filled and exciting time, and come back home safely."