Family Appreciation Day... the tradition continues Published Aug. 4, 2012 By Staff Sgt. Erich B. Smith 162nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs TUCSON, Ariz. -- While November marks the beginning of the holiday season, the 162nd Fighter Wing will recognize those who embolden the spirit of wing Airmen: their families. The wing will host Family Appreciation Day, the annual gathering of members, retirees and their families here Nov. 4. According to Chief Master Sgt. Edisa Salcido, Force Support Squadron Superintendent and coordinator for the Family Appreciation Day Committee, this event reflects the appreciation senior leaders have for junior members. "This event is an opportune moment for our members to not only spend some downtime with each other, but also to get acquainted with their wingmen's families as well," Salcido said. Though the Air Guard at the Tucson International Airport has consistently recognized the contributions of service members and their families since its founding in 1956, this year's event promises to be on a larger scale than previous family-oriented engagements, with the additional convenience of preferred parking closer to the activities near hangar 10 as well as tailgating competitions and jumping castles for children. Financial support for the November event primarily comes from morale, welfare and readiness funds, but according to Salcido, the event is made more memorable through additional funds raised through donations, ticket sales and proceeds from an upcoming car wash and the highly popular Pie in the Face fundraiser - where junior members bid on the opportunity to "pie" their coworkers and supervisors. Salcido added that event success will also depend on the direct support of unit members who may volunteer for tent construction and tear down, the cake walk, and a variety of kids and adult activities. Members of the Family Appreciation Day Committee will establish a volunteer drive at the 162nd Dining Facility during the unit training assemblies leading up to the event. Maj. Bryan Rhodes, executive officer for the Operations Group, described the family function as a "personalized event," allowing for wing members to showcase the unit's facilities. "There is a lot of energy going toward this day, and it's a great opportunity for all of us to get together in our work environment with our families," he said. Unit members can find more information about purchasing tickets by contacting Chief Salcido at 295-6466 or by inquiring with their section's Family Appreciation Day representative. Tickets are available for purchase until Oct. 13. The cost for E-6 and below will be $1, while senior NCOs will donate $20 and officers $25.