‘High-excitement’ initiative comes to Hanscom

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  A new initiative that provides "high-excitement" outdoor activities in a supervised, safe and responsible post-deployment environment has made its way to Hanscom. Officials hope the initiative, called ReCon, will assist servicemembers and their families with reducing stress from high ops tempo or deployments.

The program, intended to "replace deployment adrenalin with adventure adrenalin," among other on-the-job stressors, provides support to active duty, reserve and Department of Defense civilians and their families.

"The Air Force is providing a healthy option in response to high stress levels and high ops tempo within the Air Force," said Maj. Seth Tribett, 66th Force Support Squadron deputy director. "We're primarily looking for the returning deployers, but also taking into consideration the stress that comes with a high ops tempo at home station. It is one of the pillars of resiliency: physical fitness."

The ReCon program partners with external resources to provide certified, instructional and fun activities such as rock climbing, skiing, zip line adventure, mountain bike trips and other outdoor activities.

Some Hanscom members have already taken advantage of the program. For example, Airman 1st Class Cameron Myles, from the 66th Air Base Group, requested funding for a group of Airmen to participate in a Tough Mudder event June 1 in Gilford, N.H. As result, $6,000 was awarded and 30 Hanscom Airmen ranging in rank from airmen first class to general officers will take part in "the premiere obstacle course series in the world" that supports the Wounded Warrior Project.

"ReCon is funded by the Office of the Secretary of Defense and is intended to provide high-intensity programs for Airmen and their families," said Russell Jackson, 66th Force Support Squadron programs and project manager. "It's an initiative to get the Airmen out to have fun while utilizing outdoor rec-available programs."

Additionally, program officials hope to strengthen unit teamwork, esprit de corps and morale through ReCon adventure activities. They also hope to build adaptive and strong Airmen and families through outdoor activities.

Money is categorized by the size of the installation. Funding is limited and on a first come, first served basis. If anyone has an idea that they would like to be considered, submit a request to Jackson at Russell.jackson@hanscom.af.mil.