An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

NEWS | Nov. 6, 2009

Liberty Park opens new community center

By Eric Sharman 316th Wing Public Affairs deputy chief

A standing room only crowd witnessed history here at the Liberty Part at Andrews ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 30 when it became the first privatized family housing community at Joint Base Andrews.

The event was attended by Team Andrews members, and several distinguished speakers, including Col. Steven M. Shepro, 316th Wing/Joint Base Andrews commander, Maj. Gen. Ralph Jodice, Air Force District of Washington commander, and Kathleen Ferguson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations.

"In the Air Force, we used to just build houses, now we are building communities," said General Jodice, "I'm proud that AFDW can be a part of this initiative. It is not only the right thing to do, but it is the smart thing to do for our Airmen and their families."

One Airman and his family, Master Sgt. Michael Mooney, Air National Guard Readiness Center crisis action team NCO, saw his new home for the first time with his family.

"I've been all over the world with the Air Force and for the first time where I'm going to live looks and feels like a community," said Sergeant Mooney, "Liberty Park feels more personal, it feels more like a home."

To date, Liberty Park has opened 85 junior NCO homes, and has 214 homes scheduled for renovation.