917th PA office retreats to Ouachita National Forest

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  • 917th Wing Public Affairs Office
Barksdale AFB, La. --  Arkansas' Ouachita National Forest played host to the 2nd Annual 917th Un-Official Public Affairs Retreat over the Labor Day weekend.
 
Unlike corporate retreats, there was no agenda, brainstorming, action plans, or comprehensive meeting reports. There was only an investment in time for a payoff in memories that will surely last at least until the next event.
 
This year's public affairs retreat, which was used to relieve stress, boost morale and build team cohesiveness in the PA office by getting to know each other, was deemed a success by all who attended.
 
Mother Nature brought her "A" game to the retreat and imprinted a colorful picture of wilderness around every bend of the Little Missouri River; behind every tree and under every rock cradled in the soft-green moss nestled along her banks.
 
For one attendee, it was like reliving the past.
 
"This whole experience brought back memories of traveling the Midwest states as a kid with my family during summer vacations. I've always thought it's why I like to travel so much," said Technical Sgt. Jeff Walston, 917th Wing, public affairs technician. "It was more than a three-hour drive, but spending quality time with people outside the office does give me a little insight as to who they are, and that's good."
 
The out-of-office extravaganza, which is the brain child of Senior Master Sgt. Jessica D'Aurizio, 917th Wing, chief of public affairs, was designed to allow members of the public affairs office a chance to get to know each other's true personalities as well as their idiosyncrasies so they could understand who they really work with on a basic level. 

"I think most people are a little guarded when in an office atmosphere," said Sergeant D'Aurizio. "Out here your guard is down because of the interactions that have take place to survive the wilderness. It's a dual learning experience for everyone that benefits and transforms the office atmosphere."
 
There were a number of activities planned for the weekend. Members of the public affairs office fished, hiked, and explored the river on inner tubes after the rains. They also played chicken foot and card games at night.
 
One planned activity that was not realized was the trek up a mountain.
 
"Last time, I made it up a mountain. I was looking forward to trying to find another route up," said Master Sgt. Greg Steele, visual information specialist. "But, every time we started up, it rained. Maybe I'll make it next year."
 
What was planned as a relaxing holiday weekend left most exhausted and ready to extend their stay in the Ouachita National Forest indefinitely.
 
According to the smiles on the faces of those leaving for home, the goal of the retreat was achieved.
 
"Almost anything that helps performance and teamwork in the public affairs arena is a good thing," Sergeant D'Aurizio said. "It's a fast paced, high stress job. We have to get along to get the job done right and on time."