Membership benefits base, club members

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Phil Ventura
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  What does a Philly Cheese Steak sandwich have in common with the base gym? Sure, eating the sandwich necessitates a workout, but if purchased at the Luke Collocated Club it also supports 56th Services Squadron.

Profits from Luke's clubs support activities like the fitness center, library and community center and help feed the Luke Installation Services Fund, which in turn funds events such as the holiday tree lighting ceremony, Springfest and the base picnic - events enjoyed by thousands of Thunderbolts every year.

One way to support those programs and events is through club membership, said Bonnie Post, 56th Services Squadron club entertainment programmer. In addition to giving back to the base, club members are eligible for discounts on things such as greens fees, lodging at Fort Tuthill, food and special events.

"When people think of club membership, all they think about is going to the bar after work and that's not the case," Ms. Post said. "If you have been to a graduation or retirement ceremony, tech expo, or any of the events held in one of our facilities, then you use the clubs."

Approximately 60 percent of the officers at Luke and 20 percent of the enlisted force are club members, according to 56th SVS records. Membership among the base's junior enlisted population is especially low.

Additionally, there are many people at Luke who are still members of their former bases' clubs. Ms. Post said those members should come and transfer their membership so Luke can reap the benefits. Those members will receive a $25 club coupon for their efforts.

The clubs have initiated several programs to entice Luke Airmen to try club membership. All Airmen processing through the First Term Airman Center are eligible for a year of free club membership. Monthly dues for E-1s through E-4s are also the lowest available at $4 per month. As club members, Luke Airmen are eligible to receive numerous benefits, such as a $100 food and beverage credit when they turn 21 for use toward an in-house party.

There are many ways for Airmen to earn additional savings above the $4 cost of membership. For instance, it could be recouped with two rounds of golf at Falcon Dunes, since members receive $2 off, or with one rental from outdoor recreation, where members receive $5 off rentals between $50 and $100. Additional discounts are available across base, from the auto hobby shop to the bowling center.

A membership drive is scheduled for Sept. 1 through Nov. 30. New members will get three months of free dues. More information and membership applications are available at the Luke clubs.