Goodfellow members take an ice-cold swim Published Feb. 9, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Devin Boyer 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- More than 120 Goodfellow members jumped into Lake Nasworthy's chilling waters at the Goodfellow Recreation Camp for the 13th Annual Polar Bear Swim Feb. 7. The event brings a diverse group of individuals together to build camaraderie. "I think it's a huge morale boost," said Col. Kimberlee P. Joos, 17th Training Wing Commander. "This is a chance to cut loose and get a little crazy." Per tradition, Joos dumped a cooler of ice into the lake and took her leap of faith. The rest of the participants followed her lead. "I couldn't really breathe when I first got in, but it was really fun," said Airman 1st Class Michaela N. Woodell, 316th Training Squadron Student. Lt. Col. Max E. Pearson, 316th TRS Commander, described it as "an electrifying experience." Goodfellow members did not just jump into 30-degree water, but they did so with style. "I kind of just leaned forward and put out my cape hoping I'd glide," said 2nd Lt. James W. Snyder, 315th Training Squadron Student, after belly flopping into the lake wearing a superhero costume. Dozens of participants sported unique costumes, but only two individuals shared the prize for having the best. Joos presented the best costume award to Senior Airman Gelishia S. Rose and Senior Airman Faith N. Ellis, 17th Communications Squadron, for their colorful tutus and face paint. The 17th Mission Support Group took home the participation trophy.
