Incirlik steps out into spring

Children finger-paint t-shirts at a table sponsored by the 39th Medical Group mental health clinic at the Spring Fling celebration April 20, 2013, at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. The kid’s corner, bouncy castles and additional entertainment offered attendees of all ages a variety of activities to participate in. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Chase Hedrick/Released)

Incirlik steps out into spring

Attendees watch the events stage and visit the lineup of booths at the Spring Fling celebration April 20, 2013, at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. More than fifteen organizations contributed to expand the celebration with food, games and rides. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Chase Hedrick/Released)

Incirlik steps out into spring

Staff Sgt. Christopher Keilman, 39th Security Forces Squadron military working dog handler oversees MWD Kira’s attack on a bite jacket worn by Senior Airman Joshua Rettschlag, 39th SFS MWD handler, at the annual Spring Fling event April 20, 2013, at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. The MWDs and handlers drew gasps and applause from the crowd with their demonstrations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Chase Hedrick/Released)

Incirlik steps out into spring

Grace Grothues holds her dog Koda as her husband Marcus Grothues gives their pet the signal to play dead during the pet tricks contest at the Spring Fling April 20, 2013, at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. The Spring Fling is an annual celebration at Incirlik Air Base to welcome the warmer seasons. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Chase Hedrick/Released)

Incirlik steps out into spring

Women demonstrate a session of the Zumba fitness program during the annual Spring Fling event April 20, 2013, at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. Contests, demonstrations and musical performers entertained the crowd from the events stage throughout the celebration. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Chase Hedrick/Released)

Incirlik steps out into spring

Published April 24, 2013
By Senior Airman Chase Hedrick
39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

INCIRLIK AIR BASE WING, Turkey -- Airmen, friends and families came together to celebrate the season at the Spring Fling April 20 at Arkadas Park here.

Even with slightly cloudy skies above, attendees participated in a wide variety of events hosted by units and organizations who contributed to the annual event.

"I think it was successful. There were a lot of people there, and everybody had a good time from what I can tell," said Marcus Grothues, 39th Force Support Squadron community center director. "I think the attendance was great. There were plenty of things to do, and a good number of people came out in spite of the rain."

"It was a good day aside from the weather," said Tech. Sgt. Danielle Cook, 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron customer service NCO in charge. "It was interesting at the dunk booth, but we had some troopers who let people dunk them even with the cold weather outside."

Event organizers worked to make sure Turkish and NATO forces assigned here were also welcome to come and enjoy the event, said Grothues.

"We wanted to invite everybody who had base access to enjoy the celebration, the treats and the fun," Grothues said. "Getting together to celebrate the seasons is a fantastic way to build the greater team."

This year's Spring Fling featured a wide range of events including a pet tricks display, Zumba class demo, homerun derby and tomato launching. High participation from on-base organizations also enhanced the event, bringing more fun, food and excitement, said Grothues.

"We're already looking forward to the next big event because the summer season is just beginning," said Grothues. "Get out there, get involved and see Turkey."