Commanders, Airmen 'explore'

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Clay Murray
  • 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany --  As guests living in a foreign nation, Airmen and their families stationed here are encouraged to attend Explore the Eifel, an event to familiarize themselves with surrounding communities and attractions by meeting neighbors and touring local sights.

Some Sabers began their Explore the Eifel weekend with a tour of the nearby town of Spangdahlem and its cultural and historical sites.

"It's absolutely beautiful," said Col. Christopher Weggeman, 52nd Fighter Wing commander. "What a beautiful day to come out and celebrate German culture, the rich heritage and history of the towns Spang and Dahlem - which I've just learned form Spangdahlem together.

"Walking through the town the way people did back then, seeing it the way they saw it, along with the fact that the village is such a tight-knit community, give you such an incredible sense," he said. "Walking here with the Germans and listening to them report on the history is a priceless experience."

Airmen and Germans walked through Spangdahlem together, stopping at its many sights including a cemetery, church and catacomb. They then ventured through a forest to the town of Himmerod to tour an abbey.

"I think it's very important that we do this to get to know each other even better, not only at work but in our free time," said Klaus Rodens, mayor of Spangdahlem. "We learn a little bit more about American culture, and they learn a little bit more about ours. Each year we do something different - we show off the town with different stations, have horseback riding, do something with the kindergarteners or go to the old mill."

Spending time with community members is beneficial and important, Colonel Weggeman said, as it helps reinforce the connections between the base and local communities.

"There are many Airmen who live in the town of Spangdahlem, so getting to know each other is very important," the Colonel said.

"When we're living in another country and they are our host, we should take time to learn the cultural significance and history about them," he said. "That creates a bond and builds a strategic connection between the U.S. Airmen who are serving here and the wonderful people of Spangdahlem. I think that connection is what Explore the Eifel is all about."

Other events during Explore the Eifel included ropes courses and forest parks; wine tastings; monastery, museum and castle tours; medieval reenactments and old-fashioned dining experiences in Eifel towns such as Bernkastel, Longuich, Mehring and Nettersheim, as well as parts of the neighboring countries of Luxembourg and Belgium.