KNOB NOSTER, Mo. - It's a privilege many overlook, being able to spend time with family during the holiday season. But for the airmen stationed at Whiteman Airforce Base and deployed around the world, it’s a luxury many can only yearn for. For those lucky enough to have the opportunity to return home for the holidays from their service to the country, coming back can be a financial burden.
Whiteman Airforce Base, located just south of Knob Noster, reaches out to the surrounding communities it serves to support Airmen Home for the Holidays, through the 5th Annual Bomber Ball. The event is scheduled at 5:30 p.m., Friday, November 18 at the University of Central Missouri Ballroom. It is presented by the Whiteman Base Community Council for the purpose of raising funds to provide flights back home for those actively serving. KMZU recently spoke with Carl Kramer, First Vice Chairman of BCC, about the event.
“Airmen submit applications, and we review those applications and make decisions in the selecting process. We then pay for airplane tickets for them to come home and see their family and loved ones over Christmas.”
Kramer indicates the number of airmen given this opportunity largely depends on how much funds can be raised and varies year to year. This year more applications were submitted than in years prior, and the number of those stationed abroad submitting applications saw a sharp increase.
“We try to do as many as we can. The first year we did five. Last year we did 10. This year we already have 10 selected, but after the Bomber Ball we hope to select more.”
The evening begins with a social hour, followed by the main program, a meal, and live auction. It’s open to the public via RSVP, and free to attend for military members and their families.
“The event is important because there are 17 communities that make up the Base Community Council. We are very blessed to have a lot of community and business support for Airmen Home for the Holidays and other programs we support throughout the year.”
Surrounding communities that make up the BCC include California, Clinton, Cole Camp, Concordia, Green Ridge, Higginsville, Holden, Kansas City, Know Noster, Lee’s Summit, Lexington, Lincoln, Marshall, Sedalia, Warrensburg, Warsaw, and Windsor.
Those wishing to support the cause but are unable to attend the event in person can email BCC for donation information or participate in a virtual auction during the Bomber Ball. For further information visit the BCC Facebook page.
Other programs supported by Whiteman Base Community Council include Airmen Home for the Holidays, Key Spouse Programs, Operation Spirit, Stealth Lounge, and Dale Buckingham Scholarships.
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