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‘Thirsty Camel’ Airmen provide outlet, morale for servicemembers

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Christopher Boitz
  • 380th Air Expeditionary Wing
Southwest Asia --  Working a 12 hour shift in the desert heat isn’t easy. The sweat spilling down your face and uniform, the constant reminder to drink water to combat dehydration, the stress endured getting the mission done to the best of your ability under difficult circumstances.

After a hard day’s work, nothing beats kicking your boots off and unwinding with some friends.

To help servicemembers transition from work to relaxation, the men and women assigned to the 380th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron Community Activity Center are poised to unravel daily stressors and create an environment which revitalizes the mental, physical and social wellbeing of their patrons.

“We’re the backbone of the morale here; we do everything from providing entertainment to scheduling events,” said Senior Airman Cynthia, recreation specialist. “We plan Holiday events, movie nights, and game tournaments. We offer something better for people to do than stare at their bedroom wall.”

Each day, the staff works diligently to enhance the morale of servicemembers through a variety of activities to include scheduled events throughout the week. It’s a culmination of friendly interactions and competitiveness.

“We have everything from bingo, pool, Texas hold ‘em, poker, and corn hole. We’re also adding new things to draw in customers who might be interested in trying something different,” said SrA Lesly, recreation specialist. “Some of the games out here get competitive. It’s good for people to get out and have fun with their friends or even people they don’t know.”

The staff does more than serve beverages or put on pool tournaments and bingo games, they book local and stateside musicians and comedians to give customers something else to be get excited about.

“We try our hardest to get DJ’s, comedians, and cover bands … the best entertainers that everyone can enjoy,” said SrA Lesly. “It’s all to help get people outside of their room, relieve some stress and enjoy themselves.”

No one likes being lonely and having a hard time on their deployment. We’re here to bring people together,” she added.

When the stage at The Thirsty Camel isn’t occupied with professional talent, it’s available to servicemembers, giving them an outlet to express themselves and show off hidden talents to a larger audience.

The esprit de corps the CAC staff provides servicemembers isn’t just a one-way street; it’s a reflection of their own morale, built by those with whom they interact.

“The customers help give us something to smile about. It’s nice when customers thank us and appreciate the things we are doing for them,” said SrA Lesly. “It’s nice to exchange stories, share a few laughs or even listen to what’s troubling them. They’re the people who make this place what it is.”

The Thirsty Camel is more than just a watering hole; it’s a place where individuals can replenish personal wellness, morale, and get to know one another. It’s the reason many of the staff are ready serve.

“At the end of a long day, whether you’re coming in to watch a movie or play pool, you can find it here,” said SrA Cynthia. “It’s rewarding knowing that people are satisfied when they visit. We couldn’t have success without them.”

(Editor’s note: Due to safety and security reasons, last names were removed.)