JBSA-Lackland Exchange Holds MTI Appreciation Event for 350

The Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland AFB Exchange hosted a Military Training Instructors (MTI) Appreciation Event on May 30 to honor military training instructors for their exceptional work in training civilians to become Airmen.

“For the MTIs, this boosts morale, enhances retention, builds camaraderie and instructor cohesion,” said Chief Master Sgt. Whitfield Jack, senior enlisted leader, Air Force Basic Military Training, 737th Training Group at JBSA-Lackland. “It’s always great for the team to get away for a bit and enjoy each other’s fellowship. When our MTIs are being honored like this, it shows that they’re valued in not just our military but in our society.”

The event featured a DJ, giveaways, photo opportunities and meals provided by Panda Express.

“This event shows not just the MTIs, but the installation community, that the Exchange is a relevant partner to the military,” said JBSA-Lackland AFB Exchange General Manager Mikel Hunter.  “When the trainees first get off that bus arriving at the base, one of their first stops is getting their hair cut, which the Exchange concession Barber Shop operates. They are escorted to the South Troop Store, also run by the Exchange, for their essential needs, like toiletries, that they need for basic training. The Exchange is with these trainees for their entire time on base.”

The MTI appreciation event has garnered a number of sponsors to show gratitude for instructors.

Vendors who supported the event include Eternal Water, Red Bull, Evamor Water, Coca-Cola, Monster, Panda Express, Mobile Center, Canteen, Big Red and PODS. Bambi Singleton of vendor partner Jim Terry Group provided music support and an oversized duffel bag for photo opportunities.

“Hosting this event is an opportunity for the Exchange to say to MTIs, ‘We’re here for you. We appreciate you. We serve those who serve each and every day,” Hunter said.

For more photos from the event, check out this Flickr album.

Kenny Trinh, center, franchise owner of the JBSA-Lackland Panda Express, greets Airmen at the Lackland BX’s Military Training Instructors (MTI) Appreciation Event. Other Panda Express associates pictured, from left, are Bianca Arroyo, associate; Fabio Cordero, restaurant leader,  and Jay Jimenez, area restaurant leader.