U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Nathan ByrnesMichael Romijn, Outdoor Recreation director, pulls a mountain bike from the rack at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., June 6. Outdoor Recreation offers equipment rental to Department of Defense identification cardholders which includes everything from pontoon boats, ski boats, campers, trailers, mountain bikes and kayaks just to name a few.
NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. — With it being summer, it’s a prime time for travel, especially for families with kids who are about to be on summer break. Whether you’re a family or a single Airman craving adventure or relaxation, the 99th Force Support Squadron’s Outdoor Recreation provides budget-friendly options that cater to any type of getaway.
Outdoor Recreation offers a wide array of items and programs and encourages individuals to take advantage of what they have to offer.
“We do equipment rental that includes everything from pontoon boats, ski boats, campers, trailers, mountain bikes and kayaks just to name a few,” said Michael Romijn, Outdoor Recreation director. “We have the complete list with prices on the Nellis Force Support website. We also do outdoor adventure trips, such as the Black Canyon kayak trips. We offer camping trips to get out of the heat and currently have a trip planned to the Grand Canyon on June 23.
“Also, the single Airman program is something else that we offer, which are all the high adrenaline trips. Those trips include things like skydiving, the Richard Petty Racing Experience, Razor off road adventure and fly boarding on the river.”
Outdoor Recreation’s main mission is to provide an affordable way for Airmen to relax and unwind from the stress of work.
“Its cost saving, this is going to be your best deal,” said Romijn. “All of these items are here for the Airmen and if this stuff doesn’t get used then we are not doing our job. When you’re out there doing your job you need to sort of relax and take a break from work and that’s what we are here for. It’s a recharge.”
Airmen who have used the services from Outdoor Recreation agree that it is a great way to relax and is a nice perk that is offered to Airmen.
“I highly encourage individuals who haven’t taken advantage of the many things that Outdoor Rec has to offer to do so,” said Airman 1st Class Dominic Mendoza, 99th Logistics Readiness Squadron traffic management apprentice. “I have been on a couple of the trips and they are a lot of fun. It’s a great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors without having to spend a ton of money.”
If interested in renting equipment or taking part in the different trips that are offered, it is important to know who is eligible to utilize the services that Outdoor Recreation provides.
“It’s open to anyone will a valid Department of Defense ID card. Anyone who has a DOD ID can come in and rent an item or sign up for a trip,” said Romijn. “When it comes to signing up for trips, the main person signing up has to have an ID and as long as they can sponsor people on they can get other people on the trip as well. As far as renting, the individual must have a DOD ID.”
“On the rental side, active duty gets 30 days in advance to make reservations and retirees and all others are 15 days in advance,” said Romijn.
Reservations are encouraged for all items as they go quickly and if an item is reserved for a Friday pick up and Monday return it is charged as a single day rental.
There are a couple safety tips that Outdoor Rec would like people to keep in mind while vacationing this summer.
“Number one is to stay hydrated, we live In Las Vegas and it doesn’t take much to get dehydrated,” said Romijn. “When you rent a boat make sure you have life jackets and children are required to wear lifejackets at all times. Lastly, just use common sense when it comes to using the equipment and you will be safe.”
To sign up for trips or more information about renting equipment or services that Outdoor Recreation offers either stop by the main office or call 702-652-2514. Also, check out the website at http://www.nellisforcesupport.com underneath the Outdoor Recreation tab for upcoming events and a complete list and prices for equipment rental.
