LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --
Airmen spend more time away from their families than many civilians. Service members work for long periods of time while under constant stress and pressure. Although they are trained warriors, a little rest and relaxation is necessary.
The 56th Force Support Squadron Arts and Crafts Center supports Airman by providing a place to unwind in a friendly environment. Airmen are able to take advantage of classes that can take their minds off the stressors of the day.
"The arts and crafts center is a self-sustaining operation that generates enough on its own to remain open for Airmen," said Marcela Duran, 56th FSS office clerk. "All profit is distributed to the morale welfare recreation locations all over the base."
The arts and crafts center staff also helps when Airmen deserve recognition by creating awards or various designs in the wood shop, Duran said. These custom works of art can be personalized or memorabilia can be professionally placed within a shadow box.
The wood shop at Luke is also open to anyone who can enter the base. It is stocked with hand tools, saws and equipment necessary to build any type of woodwork as well as all necessary safety equipment. Patrons must only bring the wood for their project.
The arts and crafts center provides these services for Airmen to enjoy their hobbies even if they don't own the equipment themselves.
"It gives Airmen the chance to reconnect to a piece of home," said Kim Caley, 56th FSS Arts and Crafts operations manager. "We take everything into consideration. The arts and crafts center is for the Airmen."