You are cordially invited to the Air Force Ball Published Sept. 1, 2009 By 2nd Lt Kathleen Polesnak 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Who: All 52nd Fighter Wing Airmen What: The Air Force Ball When: Sept. 26 -- Doors open at 5:52 p.m.; dinner will be served at 7 p.m. Where: Club Eifel ball room Why: The Air Force Ball is an event for Airmen to gather and celebrate the accomplishments and heritage of their service since its inception Sept. 18, 1947. This year, the theme is "Globally Engaged ... 52nd Fighter Wing ... All In!" to highlight the key role the Air Force fulfills in missions across the world, from targeting insurgents, to humanitarian response, to medical transport and assistance. The ball also grants Airmen the opportunity to continue a legacy of pomp and circumstance and esprit de corps alongside peers, subordinates and supervisors with a series of events in a formal military setting. Air Force balls are unlike other banquets and official events because they typically occur once a year and include a distinguished visitor as a guest speaker, feature entertainment and all Airmen across base are encouraged to attend, regardless of rank or unit. This year, the Singing Sabers - a group of Spangdahlem's own talented vocalists - will perform the German and American national anthems, and Tops in Blue will belt out some tunes for the crowd, as well. A disc jockey will play music around 9:45 p.m. in the enlisted club for anyone who wants to dance. Still need more reasons? A buffet of food will be available, as well as a cash bar. How: 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. Airmen intending to consume alcohol during the event should arrange transportation ahead of time, but Airmen Against Drunk Driving will be available to drive attendees home should they be incapable. Enlisted Airmen planning to attend should wear mess dress 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.