ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
Wing leadership recently met with over 250 Airmen at the Dormitory Town Hall Meeting at the base theater to discuss the upcoming Freedom Hall Dining Facility closure.
Originally constructed in 1984, Freedom Hall will close Aug. 17 and is estimated to re-open in about three months.
"We've heard your suggestions loud and clear and we're going to incorporate your input into the new design," said Tech. Sgt. Shanté Castro, 316th Force Support Squadron food service NCO in charge. "At the new dining facility, we'll have new delivered capabilities such as three hot and cold bars, sandwich and deli stations, which will allow for the potato, taco and pasta bars you've been asking for. We'll also have two grills - one main line and one short order - and two beverage stations, as well as an ice cream bar."
The announcement of the hot and cold bars was appreciated by the Airmen who signified their agreement for the changes with a loud "huah!" and applause.
The renovations will provide a more modern look to the dining facility, as well as improved traffic flow.
During the dining facility's renovation, one row of booths will be repositioned and the piano and the wall at the entrance will be removed. The televisions will also be replaced with flat-screens.
Andrews has 556 meal card holders, as well as the 459th Air Refueling Wing and 113th Wing, who will be impacted by the closure. The in-flight kitchen can be used during UTA weekends.
Airmen are encouraged to utilize the base commissary, The Club, the BX's food court, the Sports Page, the bowling center, the golf course, Quickie Kabob and the new Subway when it's built.
Beginning Monday, Airmen will receive full Basic Allowance for Subsistence with the extra money being included in their pay on Aug. 15. The BAS rate will be $323.87 per month, or roughly $10.80 per day. Airmen are encouraged to check their Leave and Earnings Statement Aug. 15 to ensure payment and not wait until September to get any issues ironed out. Additionally, when the dining facility reopens, Airmen are strongly encouraged to check their LES to ensure that they are no longer receiving the extra payment.
"We encourage you to use this money wisely," said Chief Master Sgt. James Davis, 316th Wing/Andrews command chief. "This means, do not go out and buy a Mercedes. This money is not to be used for long-term expenses and you have to be sure not to use this money recklessly and go into debt."
From now until the closure, Airmen can use the Dining Facility. From Monday through Aug. 16, the dining facility will be "pay as you go" as meal cards will not be accepted.
"At the end of the DFAC renovation process, we'll be able to provide you with the dining environment that you deserve," Sergeant Castro said.
"The improvements at the dining facility are integral to our goals of pride and commitment to service," said Col. Steven M. Shepro, 316th Wing/Andrews commander. "The renovation and closure of Freedom Hall is a short-term hurdle with long-term benefits; keep your eyes open during this time to that end."