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It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Barksdale AFB, LA

Home Care Barksdale AFB, LA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Barksdale Global Power Museum gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Barksdale AFB, LA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Barksdale AFB, LA

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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“They allow him to have a better quality of life. They help him feel more reliant on himself. Our caregiver is perfect for him”

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“So proud of the NWLA team of caregivers and managers! Always putting the patient first!”

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“This is a great company to work for! Staff is very friendly, kind , and hardworking! I’m very thankful for meeting such great staff.”

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“This is a great company to work for! Staff is very friendly, kind , and hardworking! I’m very thankful for meeting such great staff.”

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“I must say I am proud to be apart of ABC! They have lived up to their name "Always Best Care". That works both ways too. For the Clients as well as the Employees. Thanks Keith, Millen, Rayeann, Tiece and all of ABC Staff for all that y'all do for us ???? May we continue to be blessed and prosperous in all we do individually and collectively. May my journey be long into retirement happy, joyous and free. Keep up the good works!”

Michelle W.
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“I must say I am proud to be apart of ABC! They have lived up to their name "Always Best Care". That works both ways too. For the Clients as well as the Employees. Thanks Keith, Millen, Rayeann, Tiece and all of ABC Staff for all that y'all do for us ???? May we continue to be blessed and prosperous in all we do individually and collectively. May my journey be long into retirement happy, joyous and free. Keep up the good works!”

Michelle W.
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“This company has been BEYOND the greatest thus far . Our caregivers , to our CNA’s , housekeeping staff , to our in- home staff & so forth have done nothing but make this company the best experience for our lovely clients . Nothing can get better than ABC . Come & join our team, as well as signing up for our services because you won’t regret not 1 bit . - Lex”

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“This company has been BEYOND the greatest thus far . Our caregivers , to our CNA’s , housekeeping staff , to our in- home staff & so forth have done nothing but make this company the best experience for our lovely clients . Nothing can get better than ABC . Come & join our team, as well as signing up for our services because you won’t regret not 1 bit . - Lex”

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“I am a current client of this provider She works really well with me. The caregiver we have is excellent.”

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“I am a current client of this provider She works really well with me. The caregiver we have is excellent.”

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“I am a current client of this provider The providers helped by taking care of my dad. I like that they're easy to work with.”

David T.
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“I am a current client of this provider The providers helped by taking care of my dad. I like that they're easy to work with.”

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“I absolutely love working with Erin & Haley at ABC. They are beyond amazing!”

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“I am a current client of this provider The agency has done anything that I need since I'm in a wheelchair. I would recommend them because they always work with me and let me know what's going on.”

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“Knowledgeable staff, helpful administration and EXCELLENT care! Thanks Always Best Care Shreveport.”

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“The staff is incredibly compassionate and dedicated to ensuring the well-being of seniors. Bravo!”

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“Their top-notch services go above and beyond, creating a warm and supportive environment for our loved ones.”

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“Great company! Thanks for your hard work and care for our loved ones”

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“10/10 highly recommended!”

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What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Barksdale AFB, LA?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Barksdale AFB, LA

Types of Elderly Care in Barksdale AFB, LA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Barksdale AFB, LA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Barksdale AFB, LA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Barksdale Spray Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Barksdale AFB, LA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Sam's Southern Eatery or visit Liberty Garden, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Barksdale AFB, LA

Benefits of Home Care in Barksdale AFB, LA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Barksdale AFB, LA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Barksdale AFB, LA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your LA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Barksdale AFB, LA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Barksdale AFB, LA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Barksdale AFB, LA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Barksdale AFB, LA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Savannah Grand of Bossier City
  • Bloom at Bossier
  • The Blake at Bossier City
  • Terrace
  • Riverview Care Center
  • Pilgrim Manor Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation
Home Care Barksdale AFB, LA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Barksdale AFB, LA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Barksdale AFB, LA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Barksdale AFB, LA

Latest News in Barksdale AFB, LA

SecAF visits Barksdale AFB, discusses operational imperatives

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) -- Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall visited Barksdale Air Force Base, Oct. 27 to meet with Air Force Global Strike Command lead...

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) --

Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall visited Barksdale Air Force Base, Oct. 27 to meet with Air Force Global Strike Command leaders and visit with 2nd Bomb Wing Airmen.

Kendall discussed modernization efforts throughout the command with AFGSC senior leaders, receiving updates on B-52 engine upgrades, the B-21 Raider program, and the LGM-35A Sentinel missile program.

“The modernization programs you oversee at Air Force Global Strike Command move us forward, ensuring we improve our operational posture relative to our pacing challenge; China, China, China,” Kendall said. “I’ve been beating the drum about China’s military modernization for a long time, and you are at the forefront of the department’s efforts to counter the challenge.”

Following his briefings, Kendall conducted an All Call for AFGSC staff, where he discussed the seven Operational Imperatives, including defining the B-21 Long Range Strike Family-of-Systems. Kendall also provided perspective on the various security challenges unfolding globally and conveyed his gratitude to meet with the Global Strike team.

“I am glad to have the opportunity to speak with you today. As I travel, I’ve gotten to meet a lot of Airmen and Guardians, and nothing is more important to me than having informal conversations with the men and women who wear the Air or Space uniform,” he said. “It lets me know where we are succeeding in supporting our One Team—and where we have progress still to be made.”

Kendall highlighted some of the challenges faced by the command and the Air Force - aging and costly-to-maintain capital structure with average aircraft ages of approximately 30 years.

“However, no matter the challenge, the men and women of Air Force Global Strike command have met them head on,” he said. “Our senior leaders have spoken clearly on the importance of integrated deterrence. The systems entrusted to the Airmen of Global Strike Command are the source of strength which integrated deterrence is built upon—without you, there is no foundation for our national security structure.”

After concluding his all call, Kendall had lunch with Airmen from the 2nd Bomb Wing who directly support the nuclear deterrence mission day in and day out, toured a B-52 and visited with aircrew and maintainers who keep the bomber flying.

“Thank you for all that you do to keep our nation safe in unprecedented times,” Kendall said to the Airmen of Barksdale Air Force Base. “The drive and commitment you bring to your mission every day is exceptional.”

Planes don’t fly without fuel

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Barksdale houses the largest fuel storage capacity in all of Air Force Global Strike Command, which not only keeps the B-52H Stratofortress in the air, but also keeps the rest of the 2nd Bomb Wing moving.“The fuels management flight is responsible for the storage, issue, quality control and distribution of fuel and cryogenic products,” said Senior Master Sgt. Jimmy Turner, 2nd Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels superintendent. “My shop works with every squadron on ba...

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Barksdale houses the largest fuel storage capacity in all of Air Force Global Strike Command, which not only keeps the B-52H Stratofortress in the air, but also keeps the rest of the 2nd Bomb Wing moving.

“The fuels management flight is responsible for the storage, issue, quality control and distribution of fuel and cryogenic products,” said Senior Master Sgt. Jimmy Turner, 2nd Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels superintendent. “My shop works with every squadron on base. If anyone wants fuel, then they have to deal with POL (petroleum, oil and lubricants).”

With all those responsibilities, multiple sections within the shop must come together to get the job done.

“The fuels service center, which is our accounting section, acts as our liaison to the rest of the base,” said Staff Sgt. Alexander Keenan, cryogenics NCO in charge. “They handle all accounting and reports as well as the ordering of all fuels.”

There’s a certain amount of fuel that must be maintained. So they must examine fuel levels every month. The numbers collected are then used to order the jet fuel. Once the fuel is received, is tested and approved, it is managed and dispersed across the different storage tanks on base, Keenan said.

The fuels laboratory is responsible for testing all the fuel to ensure it meets specific standards. They also test fuel samples for the 2nd Munitions Squadron ammo unit and the Army.

“Another section is the facilities section which maintains and inspects all fuel systems on base including the three military service stations, which act as gas service stations exclusively for government vehicles and equipment,” Keenan explained.

The facilities section is also in charge of maintaining and issuing liquid oxygen to servicing carts for aircraft. Liquid oxygen is needed during flight at high altitudes because when there is lower air pressure, there is less oxygen. Adding the oxygen back into the aircraft helps minimize the chance of aircrew experiencing hypoxia, Turner said.

The preventative maintenance section, in accordance with vehicle maintenance, is charged with keeping the fleet of fuel trucks operational. Altogether this team has to stay ready 24 hours a day, seven days a week because their services could be required at any time. In order to do this, they have developed a three-shift system.

“Dayshift, or ‘A’ shift, covers the inspection of both main fuel systems, issuing liquid oxygen, as well as any other complicated or out of the ordinary operations,” Keenan said. “‘B’ shift is generally the busiest shift for fuel distribution; therefore, my Airmen generally go back and forth, maintaining both fuel systems allowing distribution to accomplish the mission. ‘C’ shift covers fuel transfers and the inspection of the military service stations.”

Together the Fuels Management Flight distributes and issues approximately two million gallons of fuel every month, which is why their teamwork is so essential.

“Not only are we a team as a flight, but each section relies on teamwork to accomplish the mission,” Keenan said. “It’s easy to see our impact day in and day out. Not only are we essential around the clock, but planes don’t fly without fuel.”

Former Chief’s legacy lives on with street naming

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Barksdale honored a man who served over 50 years of combined active duty and Department of Defense civil service by dedicating a street to him.Al Benner Street, which now runs between two Fabrication Flight buildings, was renamed after retired Chief Master Sgt. Alvin Benner, during a ceremony on November 7, 2018.Benner was chosen to be memorialized for his work in the 2nd Maintenance Group as an Air Force Engineering and Technical Services (AFETS) specialist following his...

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --

Barksdale honored a man who served over 50 years of combined active duty and Department of Defense civil service by dedicating a street to him.

Al Benner Street, which now runs between two Fabrication Flight buildings, was renamed after retired Chief Master Sgt. Alvin Benner, during a ceremony on November 7, 2018.

Benner was chosen to be memorialized for his work in the 2nd Maintenance Group as an Air Force Engineering and Technical Services (AFETS) specialist following his passing in late 2016.

"The decision was made to honor his commitment. Not many people I know give 50 years of service,” said Tim Adcock, 2nd MXG AFETS specialist who knew Benner for more than 17 years. “He worked right up until he couldn’t anymore. Al loved what he did. He loved serving and he loved mentoring Airmen.”

Benner began his active duty career in 1961. He was assigned to nine bases before concluding that phase of his life in 1994 at Barksdale. He served as the superintendent to the propulsion branch and for the 2nd Maintenance Squadron he was also a wing technical advisor. That same year Benner joined Team Barksdale on the civil service side to serve as an AFETS specialist.

Initially a conference room was considered for his namesake, but support eventually grew and the decision was made to name a street after him instead. The process took about a year to get approved and completed.

“We chose the street between our two facilities because his time as a chief of this squadron and his 22 years as an AFETS allowed him to mentor Airmen on both sides of it,” Adcock said. “It was just fitting for us to do, it was meant to be.”

Benner’s family attended the dedication and ceremony making the event special, according to Mike Williams, who worked as an AFETS regional manager alongside Benner.

“It’s not very often that a family gets to see the effect that a person has in their professional life and how he was able to impact the lives around him,” Williams said. “What he did for everybody was tremendous.”

Benner’s son, Chet, said he and his family were honored to be a part of this ceremony memorializing his father.

“It’s hard to put into words how we feel. We’re truly humbled and in awe to see and hear his impact on the place he loved and lived for,” Chet said. “The military was so much more than a career to him. He was so proud to serve.”

There are 28 streets on Barksdale named in honor of individuals, with only four of them memorializing enlisted members. Benner was added to that list and his street will be a reminder to all those who pass.

“That man was the definition of tough and epitomizes what it means to be a chief,” Adcock said. “It makes me very proud to be able to honor him this way and look back on his legacy.”

Barksdale Hosts 2023 Defenders of Liberty Air Show

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La.-- -- Barksdale Air Force Base will host the Defenders of Liberty Air Show, March 25-26.Gates will open at 9:00 a.m. with the show scheduled from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on both days. Event admission as well as parking is free, however, overnight parking will not be permitted.Visitors can expect performances from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, Red Bull Aviation, Rob Holland, Kevin Coleman, Aftershock Jet Fire Truck, Randy Ball, and many more. There will also be fly overs by ...

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La.-- --

Barksdale Air Force Base will host the Defenders of Liberty Air Show, March 25-26.

Gates will open at 9:00 a.m. with the show scheduled from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on both days. Event admission as well as parking is free, however, overnight parking will not be permitted.

Visitors can expect performances from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, Red Bull Aviation, Rob Holland, Kevin Coleman, Aftershock Jet Fire Truck, Randy Ball, and many more. There will also be fly overs by B-1B Lancers, B-2 Spirits and B-52H Stratofortresses.

“I know that the community, leadership and our Airmen at all levels are extremely excited,” said Maj. Branden Yarrington, 2nd Operations Support Squadron director of staff and airshow director. “One of the great aspects about military air shows is that the public gets a chance to see our hardworking Airmen and our impressive equipment in action.”

Food and drinks will be available for purchase during the show. Upon entry, attendees will be subject to search for any unauthorized items.

Permitted items include: diaper bags and small purses (not to exceed one cubic foot), strollers, wheelchairs, and electric scooters (for handicapped/elderly), small cameras (without bags), lawn chairs. and camera bags and cases.

Prohibited items include: weapons (i.e., guns, knives, pepper spray), illegal drugs, outside alcoholic beverages, glass bottles, pets (excluding service animals), sports equipment (i.e. roller skates, bicycles, skateboards), drones, large hand carried items (i.e. tote bags, backpacks, coolers), laser pointers, tobacco products and electronic cigarettes (unless in designated areas).

For updates, follow Defenders of Liberty Air Show on Facebook and Instagram. For additional information, visit defendersoflibertyairshow.com.

FAQS:

Is there a cost?

No. Admission and parking are both free.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Food and drinks will be available for purchase at the show. Patrons may bring an empty water bottle to the show as free water stations will be available. Otherwise, outside food and drinks are not permitted.

Will there be any food or souvenirs available?

Yes. There will be concessions at the air show for food, drinks, and souvenirs.

I have small children. Can I bring a stroller, wagon and/or diaper bag?

Yes. Strollers, wagons and diaper bags not exceeding one cubic foot are permitted but will be searched at the security checkpoint.

Where can I find a schedule for the air show?

A finalized schedule is in the works. Please continue to check the air show website for updates as the event nears.

Will other seating be available if I do not bring a chair?

No. The only additional seating available is the reserved seating in which patrons can purchase tickets at https://defendersoflibertyairshow.com/reserved-seating

Where should I park and what gate should I use to access the base?

Patrons will enter through the West (Shreveport) and North (Bossier) gates and will be directed to the designated parking areas.

Can I bring my camera?

Yes. Patrons can bring cameras, lenses with cases and camera bags. All bags and camera gear are subject to search at the security checkpoint.

Can I bring a blanket and umbrella?

Yes, both are permitted.

Can I bring hand portable radios and Bluetooth speakers?

No, neither are permitted at the air show.

Can I leave and re-enter the air show?

Yes. Guests may come and go as they please but should be mindful that re-entry may be difficult with traffic and lines getting through the security checkpoints.

Is tailgating allowed?

No. Guests are not allowed to stay in or around vehicles during the show.

Is smoking allowed?

Yes, but only in the designated smoking area.

Will restroom facilities be easily accessible?

Yes. Portable restrooms will be located across the flight line.

Should I bring hearing protection?

It is highly encouraged that you bring hearing protection – especially for children. Aircraft will be taking off, landing, and performing, which will be extremely loud.

When will the Blue Angels be performing?

The Blue Angels will perform their demonstrations both Saturday and Sunday.

What happens if it rains?

Weather-related notifications will be announced at the show and on the air show social media sites (Facebook and Instagram). Unless an air show cancellation announcement is made, expect the show to continue as many aerial acts can still perform in low cloud conditions. There will also be indoor activities available.

How much will reserved seating cost and where can I purchase tickets?

Those interested in reserved seating can purchase seats at the link below:

https://defendersoflibertyairshow.com/reserved-seating

I'm interested in having an informational booth or being a vendor for the air show. Who do I contact?

Potential vendors may contact Teresa Campbell with the 2nd Force Support Squadron at 318-456-2451 or email at [email protected].

I don’t see the answer to my question. Where can I go for additional information?

For more information on the air show, visit the air show website at defendersoflibertyairshow.com and our social media accounts at @DefendersofLibertyAirShow (Instagram/Facebook). If you don’t see the information you’re looking for now, continue to check back as the air show team puts out additional information as the event gets closer.

FSS: Ensuring a Successful PCS

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- In response to COVID-19, the Department of Defense issued a stop movement order, effective March 13, 2020. In compliance with this guidance, the Air Force implemented travel restrictions for all service members, to include those with an upcoming permanent change of station.The stop movement has had a significant impact on service members and their families. With that in mind, the 2nd Force Support Squadron has been proactive in their approach to communicate all changes in guidan...

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --

In response to COVID-19, the Department of Defense issued a stop movement order, effective March 13, 2020. In compliance with this guidance, the Air Force implemented travel restrictions for all service members, to include those with an upcoming permanent change of station.

The stop movement has had a significant impact on service members and their families. With that in mind, the 2nd Force Support Squadron has been proactive in their approach to communicate all changes in guidance to the affected members.

“The weekend of March 13th, when the stop movement was first announced, my shop came in and began the process of reaching out to all first sergeants of the Airmen that were going to be affected,” said Staff Sgt. LeWillie Neal, 2nd FSS NCO in charge of outbound assignments.

As changes to policy have been made to official Air Force travel guidance, the 2nd FSS outbound assignments team has shifted their focus to building a strong line of communication between their team members and the inbound/outbound personnel.

“We understand that every policy change that occurs causes frustration for our customers because that’s directly affecting the date that they were expecting to move,” Neal said. “We try to work with them as much as possible. Typically, by the end of the day they’re appreciative, because they know that we care.”

To remain compliant with social distancing requirements implemented by the state of Louisiana and Barksdale Air Force Base, the 2nd FSS personnel have adapted within their work space. This includes the stream-lining of processes to complete their work efficiently, while keeping safety the main priority.

“We’ve had to adapt to the standards set by the Inspector General, such as, how many Airmen we can have in an office as well as how close they can sit to each other,” said Senior Master Sgt. James Bratton, 2nd FSS superintendent. “With this in mind, we’ve had to make ways to work around the limitations that have been set before us by finding new work spaces, conducting face to face meetings virtually and teleworking when necessary.”

The 2nd FSS team has processed orders for over 500 Airmen while remaining ahead of schedule. They have accomplished this by practicing both adaptability and flexibility.

“I feel like we’re highly successful as a team because we’re using this season of challenge and change for good,” Neal said. “In the beginning, we had to learn how to work with the bare minimum which increased the workload, but we improvised by having people at home teleworking. The changes that are currently being made are improving our processes.”

The Airmen of 2nd FSS continue to find ways to innovate and adapt to their circumstances in order to ensure that all Barksdale personnel, incoming or outgoing, are set up for a successful PCS.

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