Community Partners Celebrate Military Dads

  • Published
  • By Tech Sgt. Meredith Mingledorff
  • 944th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  In a show of support for the military and their families three Phoenix area businesses teamed up to celebrate dads in uniform on Father's Day. Toni and Guy Salon, Dillard's Department Store, and Uptown Alley, an entertainment complex and full service restaurant, treated three Airmen to a special celebration Sunday.

Staff Sgts. Kevin Semallie, 944th Civil Engineer Squadron, Angel Mariscal, 944th Logistics Readiness Squadron, and Louis Vega Jr., 944th Fighter Wing, were first pampered with haircuts courtesy of Toni and Guy at Arrowhead Mall in Peoria, Ariz. They then got suited up with new duds from the Men's Department at Dillard's in Arrowhead Mall, followed by a meal, bowling and games for them and their families at Uptown Alley in Surprise, Ariz.

The event was created and coordinated by Mr. Gerry Watkins, partner, Toni and Guy, who reached out to Luke AFB representatives with the idea.

"This is something we've wanted to do for a long time and we're glad to finally be able thank our servicemembers this way," said Watkins. "Our men and women in uniform do so much for us as a nation and here locally in the Phoenix area. A haircut is a small way for us to thank them for their service and let them know that Toni and Guy supports our troops."

Watkins took the initiative to invite his neighbors at Arrowhead Mall, Dillard's, to participate and Uptown Alley offered their services before doors to the entertainment complex were even open.

"We are honored to be a part of this meaningful event for these Airmen and their families," says Rebecca Bowers, General Manager at Uptown Alley. "We are all about having fun and bringing families together; we are proud to be involved in this special occasion."

As for the fathers who received the day of pampering, it will definitely be something they remember for a long time.

"This really has been an amazing day," said Vega. "I've never been to a salon before so it was quite the experience. Then to receive a new outfit and enjoy dinner, games, and bowling with the family; I couldn't have asked for a better Father's Day. All I can say is thank you!"