WC Missouri News

Airmen at Whiteman Air Force Base are now experiencing an enhanced quality of life following the reopening of the newly renovated Discovery Hall enlisted dormitory on March 14, 2024. The $12 million renovations, which spanned over 2 years, have brought a wave of improvements to the living conditions of the Airmen.

According to Tech. Sgt. Travis Makara, 509th Civil Engineer Squadron Airmen dormitory leader, the dormitory underwent a comprehensive makeover. "I think we got every penny out of this renovation," stated Makara. He emphasized that the changes made were not only aimed at improving the Airmen's quality of life but also enhancing the retainability of the new furniture and amenities.

The refurbishment project, which involved the Army Corps of Engineers and the base's procurement of over 1,900 pieces of new furniture totaling around $600,000, resulted in a significant transformation of the living spaces. The revamped rooms now boast new features such as full extra-large mattresses, ceiling fans, and increased storage capacity, creating a more comfortable and spacious environment for the residents.

Stephanie Terry, a civil engineering technician from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, highlighted the collaborative effort that went into the project, stating, "It took a lot of coordination towards the back end of the project." The successful cooperation between the base, contractor, and furniture company was instrumental in bringing the renovation to fruition.

With the reopening of Discovery Hall, which currently houses 34 residents, including seven individuals relocated from older dormitories to assist new Airmen in acclimating to life at Whiteman AFB, the focus now shifts to further improving the enlisted dorms. Team Whiteman leadership has committed to continuing the remodeling efforts in the upcoming years, aiming to enhance the quality of life for Airmen, ensuring they remain mission-ready while upholding high morale.