Air Force, commercial sponsorships equal success Published Jan. 19, 2012 72nd Force Support Squadron Marketing TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Think back for a moment when a base program or event was offered free or at a low cost, and there were prizes, free food and small giveaways. Chances are that event was sponsored. Off base businesses are very valuable to the 72nd Force Support Squadron's morale, welfare and recreation activities, events and programs. They provide financial support such as prizes and cash that is used to enhance MWR programs and help defray program costs. Through the Air Force Commercial Sponsorship program, businesses receive market exposure to Total Force Airmen, families, civilians, retirees and contractors when they sponsor Air Force MWR activities, events and programs. It is a terrific benefit for businesses to be able to reach such a large market such as Tinker AFB by sponsoring and getting their name out there. Often times, military friendly businesses just welcome the opportunity to come out and say "thank you" in person for all the hard work and sacrifice that comes with military service. Sponsorship is sometimes confused with gifts and donations, so it should be noted that Tinker's commercial sponsorship coordinator, 72nd FSS, is the sole organization with authority to facilitate sponsorship benefits for Air Force MWR sponsors at the base level. However, according to Air Force Instruction 34-223, Private Organizations and unofficial activities/organizations may accept gifts or donations. These organizations may not solicit gifts or donatiopns on base. Off-base solicitations must clearly indicate that they are for a PO or an unofficial activity/organization and not officially represented by the base or any official part of the Air Force. Donation/gift recognition may not be made publicly. It is paramount to remember that Government employees (and contractors working on behalf of Government employees) may not solicit anyone for anything while on duty or in their official capacities. To be considered as a PO on Tinker Air Force base, please contact the 72nd FSS at 734-5128 for more guidance. According to Julie Rich, 72nd Force Support Squadron Marketing director, "Senior leaders, Airmen and family members can always let businesses who express interest in supporting military MWR programs know there is a way to do so through the commercial sponsorship program." At that time they would need to refer them to the Tinker Air Force Base's commercial sponsorship coordinator. There is a sponsorship link on the webpage, www.tinkerliving.com that will provide additional information on how to sponsor at Tinker. For more information about the Air Force commercial sponsorship program, call Elena Le Gree at 734-2077 or email 72fss.fsk.mrk@ tinker.af.mil.