WIESBADEN, Germany - A simple appeal to leaders brought about the creation of a new on-post location that offers single Soldiers alternatives to sitting in cramped barracks rooms or footing it to diverse hangouts located miles off post.
U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden celebrated the opening of the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers Warrior Zone April 10 at the Community Activity Center.
"This will be a place to kick it and chill with friends," said Spc. Ramona Allen, 66th Military Intelligence Battalion, who said she, like many other single Soldiers, either hangs in her room, goes out to the movies or goes off post to clubs in the surrounding area.
The facility, which is colocated with the Victory Point Bar and less than a mile from the barracks, is a place where Soldiers can lounge, play video games, watch movies, explore the Internet and socialize at no cost.
"We have a place where we can have fun, save money and ... hopefully reduce the DUI problem," said Spc. Kelsey Reed, BOSS president, as she noted the facility offers Nintendo Wii and Xbox video games, Wi-Fi connection, computers for Internet exploring, large screen televisions for viewing movies or television and furniture for lounging. "It has more expensive equipment than we can probably afford too."
The Warrior Zone, managed by BOSS members and Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation staff, is one of the first of this kind in the Army. It is an adaptable facility that can double as a place for parties as it is equipped with a dance floor and special lighting.
Leaders said many considerations went into deciding on the new location, and the outcome has collateral community benefits.
"We are trying to do everything in our power to make sure single Soldiers are enjoying themselves while upholding Army standards while in garrison," said U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Command Sgt. Maj. Hector Prince, who added that Soldiers' safety, finance and morale were strong determinants for the new location of the BOSS center. "This is great for the single Soldiers and those who are accountable for them. It gives them a place to relax in a safe environment. ... It lessens the risks associated with Soldiers leaving the installation."
As USAG Wiesbaden covered the $37,000 price tag, BOSS members had an active role in the facility's preparation for the opening.
"It's built by the Soldier for the Soldier," said Reed who said the project took about a month to complete, but it was Soldier feedback that prompted leaders to action. "It happened because a lot of Soldiers got together and said there's no place to go."
While the Warrior Zone may become the definitive social meeting point for some, others plan to drop in occasionally to check on special happenings.
"I'm a gamer, so I'm looking forward to doing something big like this again," said Spc. Tiffany Rexroad, 66th MI Brigade, who said she is not a BOSS member but usually attends when the organization holds a special event.
The facility is open Monday through Friday congruent to the hours of operations of the Community Activity Center and Victory Point Bar.
For information about becoming active with BOSS contact Steve Eclavea, BOSS adviser, at mil 337-4269 or stop by the facility located on Wiesbaden Army Airfield in Building 1011.
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