DFAC closing for improvements

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Samuel Taylor
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  The Patterson Dining Facility at Dover Air Force Base, Del., is scheduled to close from Oct. 17 - Nov. 5 for renovations.

Many Airmen may be wondering how the closure will affect them since the DFAC is a primary source of food for Airmen living in the dormitories. Several members of the 436th Comptroller Squadron and 436th Force Support Squadron have come together to answer some of the questions Airmen may be asking.

Why is the DFAC closing?
The DFAC will be closed as it undergoes several updates. New features include a redesigned full-serving line, a new 24-slot salad bar, grab-and-go stations, improved customer flow for both serving lines, a self-serve bar with healthy-choice items, and added space for a mobile carving station.

Why do I have to pay out of pocket for food?
Airmen will have to pay out of pocket initially because their meal deductions will be refunded to them later. The reimbursement will total approximately $175, which is based on the daily rate of $9.25 multiplied by 19 days.

When will I be reimbursed for the money I spend?
Airmen will be refunded on their Nov. 15 paycheck. All Airmen will receive the blanket reimbursement of $175, regardless of how much money they choose to spend on food individually. Airmen on the meal-card plan will still see meal deductions as normal on their Leave and Earnings Statement during October and November.

Where can I go for food during this time?
There are several options for Airmen to purchase food at Dover AFB.
-- The flight kitchen at the Passenger Terminal is open 24/7, and serves boxed meals for $4.25.
-- The Commissary is open from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday - Friday; 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday; and is closed Monday.
-- Grotto's Pizza on base is open from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday - Thursday; 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday.
-- Eagle Lanes Bowling Center is open from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday - Thursday; 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday - Saturday.
-- Eagle Creek Golf Course is open from 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday - Friday; 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, Holidays.