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NEWS | Sept. 25, 2008

FSS shows appreciation to lodging workers

By Airman 1st Class Patrick M. McKenna Staff Writer

Andrews is where more than 10,000 men and women come to work in support of their respective missions. Part of what makes the Andrews community's morale high is the recognition of these individuals when they continuously perform their jobs and meet an exceptional standard. The 316th Force Support Squadron recognized some its dedicated workers Sept. 15 and 16 by hosting a breakfast and presenting gifts to the men and women who work in Lodging. The week of September 14 to 20 is International Housekeepers Week and was the catalyst to Andrews' newest squadron deciding it was time to thank not only its room attendants but also the maintenance workers and laborers who work hard to provide Andrews' guests with a comfortable stay. In addition to the breakfast, the lodging workers also received roses, cake, chocolate coins, and handmade cards from Capt. Jennifer Mack, 316 FSS Sustainment Flight commander, said 2nd Lt. Vinny Pande, 316 FSS officer in charge of Lodging. These workers are tasked with maintaining 87 rooms which include 10 suites for distinguished visitors and 17 extended stay residences for servicemembers and their families, said Lieutenant Pande. Workers such as Deborah Brown are sometimes responsible with getting up to 10 rooms serviced in a single day. Ms. Brown and her coworkers are meticulous in their duties so the quarters are suitable for whoever may be staying there next, whether it is a young non commissioned officer arriving with their family to a general officer visiting Andrews for a few days. The 316 FSS felt it was extremely important to show 20 of their hardworking employees that they are in fact noticed and more importantly, appreciated, said Lieutenant Pande. "So far the reaction has been incredibly positive," said Lieutenant Pande. "These are the hardest working people here and they have a thankless job," said Lieutenant Pande. "Hopefully this is the first of many more occasions where they are acknowledged for their hard work."