Military members from squadrons across the wing visited the 452nd Aeromedical Staging Squadron (ASTS) to receive complimentary massages, given by students from The American College of Healthcare (ACH), Riverside. Massage tables and chairs were set up in a makeshift spa using some office space. Calming, nature sounds were played in the background, and the lights were dimmed to aid in relaxation.
The ACH students visited March Field during the June B Unit Training Assembly, providing more than 200 massages to Team March members. The courtesy event took place at the 452nd ASTS and Aerospace Medicine Squadron locations, where personnel were encouraged to participate and enjoy a brief moment of relaxation during the workday.
“The goal was to provide well-deserving military members with a beneficial service we can offer,” said ACH instructor Lynn Maison. “They experience unique stressors which can take a huge toll on their bodies.”
The mental health flight from the 452 ASTS organized the event and invited the ACH to teach and encourage various relaxation techniques, consistent with March’s Healthy Base Initiative.
Massage therapy students volunteered their personal time to participate in the weekend-long event, and performed a wide variety of specialty massages ranging from physical therapy to Swedish and Thai massages.
The event received resounding positive feedback.
“It was so convenient to have massages available here, because I’d never have time to get one between work and watching my children,” stated one Team March member. “It felt great right after my Fit-to-Fight test this morning!” exclaimed another.
Col. Darrin Lambrigger, 452 ASTS commander, presented an ACH representative with a squadron coin in sincerest appreciation.
“We love the idea of giving back to a group of people in our own community who do so much for our country,” said Maison.
