FSS has something for everyone Published Aug. 15, 2011 By Michael Sampson 17th Force Support Squadron GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Did you work out at the Fitness Center this morning? Or perhaps take your children to the Child Development Center or Youth Center? Have you had breakfast at the Dining facility or Bowling Center lately? I bet you went by the Education office not long ago to register for tuition assistance, Post 9/11 GI Bill, or possibly even to take a test. Certainly, you've been in the Military Personnel Section for promotion, evaluation, SGLI, to attain a new CAC card, or just to gain information. Undoubtedly, you have taken part in a base Intro, Relocation, or Transition Assistance programs offered. There are not many days people don't have some interaction with the members and activities of the 17th Force Support Squadron. Goodfellow's Mission Support Squadron and the Services Division merged on Aug. 22, 2008, to become the 17th Force Support Squadron. Building on mission sustaining capabilities, combining two stellar forces allowed us to maximize customer service, reduce costs inherent with maintaining separate organizations, and modernize our processes. The 17th FSS is one of the largest and most diverse units on the installation with more than 300 military and civilians, managing 32 on and off-base facilities and supporting more than 19,700 active duty, reservists, civilians, retirees, and family members in the local community. A major function of the 17th FSS is to provide quality of life services for the Goodfellow community. As such, we are focused on creating opportunities for you to engage in with your Airmen, coworkers, friends, and family. Additionally, we manage the non-appropriated funds on base. These funds come primarily from the sale of goods and services to you here at Goodfellow. They go right back into supporting morale, welfare, and recreation programs. This year we have reinvested more than $263,000 of NAF funds for new equipment items such as an RV camper, pontoon boat, furniture, and kitchen equipment to better serve you. Simply put, the 17th FSS is responsible for making Goodfellow the base of choice in the Air Education and Training Command. We are here for the people and our squadron meets the personal, professional, and recreational needs of our workforce, retirees, and dependents. Moreover, we've done these things while remaining faithful to our Air Force Core Values, earning AETC and Air Force awards for excellence. Among other things, we provide personnel, manpower, and education benefits to develop our Airmen and ensure they receive the entitlements and development necessary for their career progression. We endeavor to provide all these goods and services to Airmen and veterans at the best value possible. There are multiple opportunities to participate and encourage others to participate. From adventure trips including rafting, hiking, biking, and kayaking to automobile enthusiasts, woodworking and arts and crafts, there's something for everyone. If entering into contests is more your style, I encourage you to check out our intramural sports programs including basketball, softball, flag football, and soccer. Go bowling or challenge your friends to a friendly game of paintball. If you're a gamer, bring your friends to the Event Center for some video gaming or a cultured game of pool. If you are looking for an opportunity to bring people together, there's no better place than the Club where you can enjoy your favorite beverage, snacks, a game of pool, and some good ole' social interaction. If you have an idea or activity you would like to see offered, I encourage you to engage me. Everyone can find special events information on the FSS website: www.17fssgoodtimes.org or pick up a free issue of the GoodTimes booklet located throughout the base. We will even mail it to you for free! So, what are you waiting for? Get your friends together, pick your activity and enjoy!