MANNHEIM, Germany - Despite cool temperatures, rain and wind, more than 250 Soldiers, civilians and retirees attended the grand opening of the U.S. Army Garrison Mannheim Warrior Zone recently.
Located in what was formerly known as the Coleman Club on Coleman Barracks, the Warrior Zone comes complete with five flat screen televisions across the bar, four flat screens with reclining chairs for gaming, two large flat screens featuring the Wii gaming system, six individual computer stations, pool table, ping pong, and a mini movie theater complete with 12 plush recliners with built-in beverage holders.
The project began in November, with several sites under consideration.
From the old Army Community Service Welcome Center located at Friendship Circle to Mike's Pub in the Coleman Bowling Center, sites were viewed and subsequently rejected, largely due to the cost of renovations.
"When the Coleman Club was mentioned as a possible location we thought it was perfect," said Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Director Christopher Clements. "The space was in great shape and only used for special catering events. With the bulk of our single Soldiers located on Coleman Barracks, it was an easy decision. After that, the project just took off."
Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers Vice President Spc. Damien Jaquez, began working closely with Clements and John Mann, Family and MWR automation specialist, to create a unique space where Soldiers could unwind, relax, keep in touch with friends and family, as well as engage in various activities designed to bring them out of the seclusion of their barracks rooms.
"So many of our Soldiers return from downrange with the adrenaline still pumping," Jaquez said. "This place is designed to provide them with a safe, reasonable outlet for some of that pent-up energy."
One might wonder why a non-enduring installation slated for closure, would go through the time and $200,000 expense of opening a new facility.
"(Leaders) feel it is of paramount importance to continue our commitment to Soldiers," Clements said. "And as long as Soldiers are here, the Warrior Zone will continue to stand."
Decorated in classic red, black and grey, the interior offers an inviting space for individual and group activities. During the grand opening, Soldiers played highly physical games on the Wii system, while others quietly composed e-mails and surfed the net not 5 feet away.
Still others jammed with the U.S. Army Europe Rock Band on the dance floor, and enjoyed a sampling of various items that will be available through the complete food and beverage service, such as chicken wraps, ribs and more.
The movie room was packed with folks taking in the latest DVD action release of the summer blockbuster, "Iron Man 2," while a few steps away Soldiers were kicked back at the gaming stations, taking advantage of the hottest games on the market.
Attendee's comments ranged from, "This place rocks," to "I can tell I'll be spending a lot of time here - heck, I can eat dinner, check my mail, knock out a few games, and beat everyone else at pool ... all in one night."
One even remarked on the wall designs - freestyle works of art featuring The Beatles, Kiss, Run DMC, Michael Jordan and Biggie, saying, "This is what I'm talkin' about. A place of our own that's not just a replica of just another government office."
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