Club membership: More than dues

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman R. J. BIERMANN
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Since the inception of the U.S. Air Force in 1947, camaraderie and esprit de corps have been important factors in creating a distinguishable military force. 

Air Force Clubs have since been a signature location for Airmen to build on personal and professional relationships. 

"The Luke Air Force Base clubs have been around since 1961 and have always been used for the purpose of lunch, dinner, fun programs and special events," said John Myrick, 56th Force Support Squadron Club manager. 

Today, nearly 48 years later, Luke's clubs - soon to become one entity - continue to serve several functions in support of Team Luke. 

"Our clubs and club staff host tons of official functions all year 'round," Mr. Myrick said. "There are the Airmen Leadership School and B-Course graduations, wing promotions, changes of command and retirement ceremonies." 

The club also has a variety of entertainment events and social gatherings. 

"We schedule all kinds of themed parties, sports parties, comedy nights; you name it," Mr. Myrick said. "There are numerous social hours, bands, open microphone and karaoke nights, and crud tournaments. Club members can also sponsor events for local business and community organizations or hold wedding receptions, birthday parties, and promotion parties. [Booking events] is just one of the many privileges." 

Although many clubs have gone to member-only access, Luke's will still welcome nonmembers. 

"Although nonmembers are charged a higher fee for lunch and some dinners right now, they are allowed to walk in the club and pay the same price for drinks and social hour food," Mr. Myrick said. "Also at official events, nonmembers have paid the same price as members. This will not be the case when the collocation of the club occurs. Members will receive discounts and will be charged less. These changes will ensure members
clearly see the benefits of being a club member." 

Fortunately for nonmembers, special membership drives are held throughout the year to provide incentives for joining. The current drive, which runs until Aug. 15, gives new members zero percent interest, free dues for six months, the chance to win Super Bowl tickets and a chance at an online cash prize at sign-up. 

"Again, there are many benefits to becoming a member," Mr. Myrick said. "For starters, membership pays for itself." 

About 41 percent of eligible Luke officers are currently club members while 18 percent of Luke enlisted members are currently club members. 

Members receive free check-cashing privileges, $1 off brunch and lunch buffets, $2 off special functions and dinners, and up to $5 off at entertainment events. Every month members receive $6 in coupons to redeem at lunch or dinner. 

"When it comes to saving money, it doesn't stop there," Mr. Myrick said. "There's also the cash rewards program which earns you one percent cash back on every eligible dollar your spend off base and two points for each purchase at eligible on-base venues. Additionally, the annual club membership scholarship program offers $25,000 to those who compete in a themed essay. And these are just a few ways the club membership pays you back." 

Outside the club, members can take advantage of saving money at other FSS locations. Outdoor recreation provides a 10 percent discount for rentals, the bowling alley gives
$1 off each game on Friday nights, the golf course offers discounts on weekend green fees, and much more. 

To become a member, visit Club Thunderbolt to complete a membership application or visit www.afclubs.net and click on AF Clubs. For more information, call (623) 856-6446.