Airmen join NBA stars to help vets Published Nov. 7, 2014 By Bryan Magaña 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- Reservists from the 419th Fighter Wing joined the Utah Jazz and other military personnel for a community service project at the Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Salt Lake City Thursday. The project was part of "Commitment to Service," a Defense Department initiative that brings service members and athletes together to serve their local communities. About 75 people - including personnel from the Marines, Army, and Navy - worked alongside current and former Jazz players to spruce up the outdoor area at the VA Medical Center. The biggest project was refurbishing the courtyard, which required removing old bricks and beautifying the space. "One of the reasons people join the military is because they've met these veterans, they see what they've done for their country," said Senior Master Sgt. Garrett Pantone, 419th Civil Engineer Squadron. "We were just happy to help them in any way we could." Volunteers from the 419th CES were especially equipped for the project, Pantone said. "That's our forte, we fix what needs to be repaired." Other projects included hanging Christmas lights, raking leaves, and doing a deep cleaning at the nearby Fisher House, which houses families whose loved ones are recovering at the VA hospital. Some Airmen tagged along with Utah Jazz players to visit hospitalized veterans and hear their stories. "It's great to have volunteer opportunities like this," said 2nd Lt. Matthew Plendl, 419th Medical Squadron. "It's an honor to help these veterans who paved the way for us."