Patrons See airshow in style

Published May 20, 2011
By Benjamin Newell
Air Force District of Washington

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- This year at the 2011 Joint Service Open House, participants had the opportunity to experience something they haven't in previous years ... the chance to be pampered and spend the day as a VIP.

The Capital Club, hosted by 11th Force Support Squadron at Joint Base Andrews, Md., is the resort area of the open house. It's like paying for box seats at a baseball game, but instead of being farther from the action, Capital Club members sit in an area thrust forward into the flightline. Oh, and all meals are catered.

"This is the first time we've been able to do this," said Heather Fales, 11th FSS operations manager. "We're really excited to be able to offer these amenities to all guests."

Open house fans ages 13 and older gained access to the Capital Club for $90. Ages six to 13 were admitted for $45, and children six and under were free with an accompanying adult.

"I'd definitely fork over the cash for that," said Marcus Foley, a Pentagon employee who attended the JSOH on May 20. "The food here can be steep anyway, so you might as well pay up front for shade, food, and a place to sit."

All profits from the Capital Club went directly to quality of life programs run by the 11th FSS on Andrews. Quality of life initiatives include Hearts Apart and Heart Link programs, which seek to connect deployed servicemembers to their families stateside through electronic and traditional communications. Family fun programs and sporting events for base populations are also supported with the proceeds, providing free on-base events to servicemembers and dependants.

Breakfast in the Capital Club is served in the form of freshly scrambled eggs, pancakes, juice, coffee, fruit and condiments. Lunch is barbecue themed, and includes brisket sandwiches, coleslaw, potato salad, sodas and cold water. A cash bar is available for adults looking to cool off. Snacks are available throughout the day.

Views from the Capital Club are unparalleled, allowing patrons to rub elbows with The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds support crew, which is stationed nearby. Earplugs come free with the wristband issued to all Capital Club ticket holders.

"This is just an upgraded experience," said Mrs. Fales. "We're just here to provide people the opportunity to experience the air show in a more comfortable setting."