Air Force Ball: Date changes, global engagement theme the same Published Sept. 9, 2009 By 2nd Lt. Kathleen Polesnak 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The Air Force Ball, originally scheduled for Sept. 26, will take place Sept. 25 at Club Eifel. Sabers from across the 52nd Fighter Wing are invited to attend the 2009 Air Force Ball, which aims to observe the Air Force's birthday and Airmen's contributions around the globe. "The Air Force Ball is usually scheduled around the Air Force's birthday, Sept. 18, 1947, to give Airmen the chance to celebrate the many accomplishments and heritage of their service throughout history," said 1st Lt. Cory Helms, Air Force Ball committee chairman. This year's theme is "All in...Globally Engaged" to recognize the unique role the Air Force fulfills in missions across the world, from dropping bombs downrange, to humanitarian response, to providing medical assistance, he added. The formal evening reception begins at 5:52 p.m. - in recognition of the 52nd Fighter Wing - and appetizers will be available starting at 7 p.m. A cash bar will also be available at the event. Airmen intending to consume alcohol during the event should arrange transportation ahead of time, but designated drivers will be available to drive attendees home should they be incapable. The formal evening reception begins at 5:52 p.m. - in recognition of the 52nd Fighter Wing - and appetizers will be available starting at 7 p.m. A cash bar will also be available at the event. Airmen intending to consume alcohol during the event should arrange transportation ahead of time, but designated drivers will be available to drive attendees home should they be incapable. The Singing Sabers - a group of vocalists from Spangdahlem - will perform the German and American national anthems, and members from the Tops in Blue will sing a few songs, as well. A disc jockey will play music around 9 p.m. in the enlisted club for anyone who wants to dance. Cost is $5 for airmen first class and below, $10 for senior airmen to technical sergeants and $20 for master sergeants and above. All Airmen can purchase tickets via credit card through an e-mailed electronic invite from first sergeants. Enlisted Airmen planning to attend should wear mess dress or semi formal, which is service dress with a white collared shirt in place of a blues shirt. Females must wear a skirt, nylons and heels. No covers are required. All officers attending the event must wear mess dress.