Combat Dining In: NCO perspective

Published July 21, 2011
By to the Thunderbolt

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Master Sgt. Amy Tupper, 6th Communications Squadron, gives her NCO perspective on the upcoming Combat Dining In.

Thunderbolt: What are your expectations for CDI?
Tupper: My expectations are that it's going to be a lot of fun, I'll probably get very wet, and I can expect many a trip to the Grog! Chief Crowley has already warned me that since this is my first, I can expect a visit or two. I also expect to see our enlisted leadership on base bringing out the Airmen to have a great time.

Thunderbolt: What does it take to plan a CDI?
Tupper: Planning any function takes dedicated folks who want to see the event succeed. For a Combat Dining In, you need those people who are willing to bring their A-game to make it a memorable event for everyone.

Thunderbolt: What is the importance of a CDI to enlisted heritage?
Tupper: As with all ceremonies in the military, the dining in has a history rich in tradition. The basics of it are a chance to bring people together socially, but in a formal setting. Add the "combat" aspect, and it gives the participants a chance to "play war," have fun with it, but still observe rules of engagement and respect of leadership. It's important for our Airmen to be able to let loose with each other sometimes, and this will definitely be the event for that!