New organization open to NCOs

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Robert Barnett
  • 35th Fighter Wing public affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  More than 10 NCOs showed up for the first meeting of a brand new organization here Jan. 5.

This brand new organization, put on by the Community Center, is geared towards unaccompanied or single NCOs. This includes junior and senior NCOs of all branches.

"It is my understanding that no other base has anything like this," said Senior Master Sgt. Walter Grudowski, 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron maintenance training flight chief. "Since we had one meeting so far we haven't formalized what the name of the organization will be. We are talking among ourselves to determine the best name that illustrates what our purpose is."

The main purpose of this organization is for NCOs to get out of their quarters and see some of the culture. It also serves as a network opportunity for those single or unaccompanied NCOs. The club allows them to get away from the work center and have a good time.

"I have been here since July and have tried taking advantage of the ITT tours, and have found them pleasant, although since I was alone they could have been better," Sergeant Grudowski said.

As a place to network, the new NCO organization allows people of various interests to get together so they can enjoy their off-duty time. For example, if someone enjoys board games, they can find other NCOs that enjoy games and have a 'game night.' Or, if someone enjoys playing an instrument they can find others who enjoy it as well.

"Several people have made comments about how they would enjoy doing things like that with people other than those they see while at work," said Sergeant Grudowski. "Having this organization allows them to have friends outside the unit and avoid possible issues with unprofessional relationships."

In addition to networking opportunities, the organization also offers scheduled trips through the community center.

"This is a hand up organization not a hand out. We are working with the Recreation Center Staff to plan and have trips," Sergeant Grudowski said.

These trips will be funded by the individuals attending and not by the base.

"We will receive a lot of help from the Recreation Center in the planning and transportation area, but the funding is totally on us that sign up," he said.

The organization will have meetings the first Saturday every month at 5 p.m. in the Mokuteki. There is a mailing list for those interested in attending the meetings or other social gatherings. To sign up for this organization, send an email to misawacommunitycenter@misawa.af.mil or walter.grudowski@misawa.af.mil. Put the term 'Unaccompanied NCO' in the subject of the e-mail and your name will be added to the mailing list.