MacDill Chapel Sanctuary re-dedicated Published Sept. 16, 2011 By Staff Sgt. Pete Flores 6th Air Mobility Wing Chaplin's office MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- On Sept. 8 the Base Chapel held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil one of its largest renovations in the 40-year history of the facility. Col. Lenny Richoux, 6th Air Mobility Wing commander, joined Lt. Col. David Buttrick, 6th AMW chaplain, in opening the doors to unveil the newly renovated sanctuary to the base community. The sanctuary is the main worship center for individuals to exercise their freedom of religion by gathering for various services. In addition, it serves as a place to both celebrate and remember significant life occurrences and to honor our Airmen who pay the ultimate sacrifice. The extensive renovations serve to modernize and create a better worship experience for those who attend services on-base. The $90,000 upgrades include new carpet, pews, sound-system, chairs, podiums, alter, and curtain. The new upgrades have created better accessibility for handicapped worshippers while integrating a new style to the sanctuary. The pews were built to provide better comfort with permanent upholstery while also celebrating Air Force Heritage with Hap Arnold wings carved into the pew ends. The sanctuary was a major priority for upgrading because of how often the facility is used. Annually, the multi-faith sanctuary is utilized for more than 300 religious observances, weddings, funerals, and memorials. Chaplain Buttrick commented during the ceremony on the purpose of the renovation, "It's very important to have a first class facility to honor those who have served faithfully in defense of our nation." The Chapel has resumed weekly services in the sanctuary along with daily Mass.