Airman's Attic open to junior enlisted reservists

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Joe Yanik
  • 512th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  (This is the third of 3 stories in a series about on-base resources available to junior enlisted reservists.)

In March, the Airman's Attic on base re-opened its doors after moving to Bldg. 435, located across from The Landings on Chevron Avenue. Though its address has changed, its mission has not.

"The Airman's Attic is a base organization set up to provide Dover Airmen and their families new and used donated items," said Master Sgt. Donald Tresler III, first sergeant of the 436th Logistics Readiness Squadron and the Airman's Attic liaison with the 436th Airlift Wing's First Sergeants Council. "It's open to members of all branches of service, including reservists, E-5 and below."

The First Sergeants Council is responsible for the oversight of the Airman's Attic and management of its all-volunteer staff.

Upon entering the building from the side, Airmen must sign in before choosing from among the items on display. Before leaving, each visitor is required to complete a form with the visitor's name, rank, organization and a list of the items being taken.

Patrons pay nothing for what they take from the Airman's Attic, but they are limited to 20 items and two pieces of furniture per month.

The organization's inventory ranges from children's clothing and baby supplies to desk lamps, kitchen flatware and home electronic equipment.

"We accept military uniform (apparel)," said Tresler. "But, everything has to be serviceable."

Senior Airman Matthew McKenzie, a volunteer staff member at the Airman's Attic, said anyone who donates military clothing is requested to remove any badges and name slates before bringing them in.

Items not accepted are food items, toys, knickknacks, pictures and adult clothing.

There are no restrictions, however, on who can donate.

"We accept donations from anyone, service member or civilian, so long as the items are useable and clean," said Tresler,

Anyone who wishes to offer goods to the organization can stop by during open hours: Mondays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tresler said that if someone would like to donate but is not authorized to come on base, the volunteer staff could arrange to pick up the goods.

The Airman's Attic has its own Facebook page where the public can post questions and requests for information. The organization's volunteer staff uses the social media site to announce new inventory that becomes available and other relevant information.

Anyone interested in volunteering as a staff member or in donating new or gently used items can call (302) 677-3137 for more information.

With the Airman's Attic settled into its new location, Liberty Wing reservists have another resource on base that offers benefits with junior enlisted Airmen in mind.