TOP STORY >>94.1 FM, base commemorate birthday

By Staff Sgt. Kati Garcia
314th Airlift Wing public affairs

Central Arkansas classic rock listeners helped commemorate the Air Force’s 60th birthday Tuesday during their morning commute.

94.1 FM, The Point, morning personalities Kevin Clay and Jennifer Trafford, broadcast live from Little Rock Air Force Base’s Hangar 1080 from 6 to 10 a.m. The live broadcast included the show’s normal format of classic rock, news, weather and traffic, but weaved in interviews from Airmen and facts about the Air Force and Little Rock AFB.

“Little Rock Air Force Base has strong ties to their local community,” said Point DJ Kevin Clay. “On my short drive to work everyday, I see a sign saying that my road is maintained by Airmen from right here.”

The four hour broadcast gave listeners a chance to hear about the base’s mission and community involvement. And some local Airmen, like Staff Sgt. Josh Willingham, 314th Maintenance Squadron fabrication flight, were on hand to take part in contests that are normally reserved for call-in guests.

“I listen to The Point on my way to work,” Sergeant Willingham said. “So I was excited to be able to stop by and meet the people I hear on my radio everyday.”

Col. Mark Vlahos, 314th Airlift Wing vice commander, stopped by the broadcast early in the day to share his experiences at Little Rock AFB and realized that some community ties are stronger than one would expect.

“This is my third tour at Little Rock, but it turns out that I was a Scout Master for Kevin (Clays’) son during my second tour,” Col. Vlahos said.

Ms. Trafford said she was excited to be broadcasting from the base. “It’s not often that we’re able to get out and interact with the troops firsthand like this, so I’m thrilled to be here.”

Local recruiters were also on hand to talk about the more than 30,000 job opportunities that exist within the Air Force each year.

The Honorable Tommy Swaim, Mayor of the City of Jacksonville, turned out to share his take on the base’s ties to the local community.

“We love the military presence here,” the mayor said. “We are very proud of the men and women who serve our country and are proud to share our community with them. We know they may be in church on Sunday and leaving for Iraq on Monday and we support them in any way we can.”

Mr. Clay reminded listeners often of the Air Force’ 60th birthday and ended his broadcast with a “thank you” to the Airmen of Little Rock AFB.

“We want to thank them all for their service. All too often we take our freedoms for granted, so today we want to show our gratitude of everything they do.”