Aviano members visit Olympics

Published March 13, 2006
By Senior Airman Colleen Wronek
31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy (USAFENS) -- Aviano members watched history in the making during the 2006 Winter Olympics in Torino. For many it was an unforgettable experience.

“It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up, especially since we’re so close to the olympics. I can say I was there,” said Tech. Sgt. Andrea Birkland, Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

Sergeant Birkland watched the USA versus Germany women’s hockey game, the 500 meter women’s speed skating semi-finals and finals and the USA versus Latvia men’s hockey game.

“It was pretty cool watching the women’s hockey,” she said. “In women’s hockey there’s really no checking or slamming against the glass. So to see the skill and talent of the women handling the puck was pretty cool.”

Sergeant Birkland said the crowds weren’t as large as she expected except for the men’s hockey game.

Army Capt. Brian McCoy, B Company 5-158th Aviation Regiment, and his wife, Denae, attended the Olympics Feb. 11. They got to see a childhood friend, Chad Hedrick, compete and win the gold in the men’s 5000 meter speed skating event.

“Our favorite moment was when our hometown competitor, Chad Hedrick won the gold. We got to say hello, congratulate him afterwards and enjoy celebrating with him,” Capt. McCoy said. “Ever since I was a child, I wanted to go to the Olympics. It was great that we were so close to these games and actually had the opportunity to go with such ease. The Spirit of the Olympics was evident throughout Torino and was just like I Imagined it would be.”

Capt. McCoy said the Olympics were a once in a lifetime opportunity that was too good to pass up.

“To watch and be part of that kind of History really makes you appreciate where we are and the kind of opportunities that we have over here,” he said. “Everyone was there for the same reason; to cheer for their country to win the gold and to enjoy the games.”