Incirlik extends pool season to accommodate NATO forces

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nicole Sikorski
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  With the swimming season coming to a close at most bases, many pool goers hibernate for the winter with their busy schedules. However, this year Incirlik AB will keep its pool open until Oct. 31.

The 1st Netherlands Ballistic Missile Defense Task Force servicemembers submitted a request to extend the season because for them it is one of the highlights at Incirlik AB.

"The Dutch forces are our most committed regular pool users," said Kelly Bortles, 39th Force Support Squadron outdoor recreation manager.

Dutch servicemembers are thankful the pool staff could accommodate their request.

"When people work 12 hour shifts during the day, it is nice to have a place to relax," said Dutch army Sgt. 1st Class Peter Van Has, sports instructor.

In response to their request, the pool will be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Lap swim will be from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Lap Swim, a 39th Air Base Wing sponsored fitness program, is free, and open swim is $3.

The pool will be honoring season passes purchased during the summer pool season, said Bortles.

"We really want to give kudos to the 39th FSS leadership and the 39th Contracting Squadron," said Bortles. "They worked very hard to get the gate passes and extend the contract. It's not an easy thing to do when you talk about the end of one fiscal year and the beginning of a new one."