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Build-a-Boat helps build Team Sheppard morale

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Adawn Kelsey
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Cardboard, duct tape and non-buoyant decorations were the only tools teams could use to devise their watercraft during Sheppard's 10th annual Build-a-Boat Race at the Bunker Hill Pool July 31.

The end results varied for each team as they lowered their vessel into the water, provided a fearless captain and waited for the start siren to sound.

The teams had different techniques and methods as they paddled, swam, drug or slowly descended towards the bottom of the pool. More than 35 teams tried to make their way across the pool and back contending against the others to win in at least one of six categories.

Lt. Col. Erik Bovasso, 82nd Force Support Squadron commander, said he had no idea what to expect and was impressed by the enthusiasm.

"This is an outstanding team Sheppard event," the commander said. "This is an event where everyone just came together and had a great time."

After all the teams competed the three judges, Col. Michael Hake, 82nd Training Wing vice commander, Chief Master Sgt. David Nelson, 82nd TRW command chief, and Colonel Bovasso, tallied the scores. Colonel Hake announced winners of this year's Build-a-Boat Race:
  • The Barracuda, fastest time, was won by the Life Guard team.
  • The Jewel of the Pool, best decorated boat, went to the Security Forces team.
  • The Ugly Duckling, the least decorated boat, went to the 362nd team.
  • The Commander's Choice, the overall winner determined by the Judges, was presented to the Spider Pigs.
  • The Rock, fastest sinking, went to the Neighborhood Boys.
  • The Chipper Clipper, most enthusiastic team, went to the Navy Seabees.
After the awards were presented, the teams enjoyed some less competitive time together during the post Build-a-Boat cook out.

Chief Nelson said it was great to have permanent part, Airmen in Training and families come together as a community.

"This was a good opportunity for the Sheppard members to work as a team in a totally different and purely fun environment," the chief said.

Colonel Bovasso said events like this can't happen without teamwork.

"A big 'thank you' goes out for everyone's hard work and help from the sponsors to bring all the parts of this event together and make it happen," the colonel said.