2nd AS builds second to none friendships Published Dec. 7, 2006 By 2nd Airlift Squadron POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Deployed members of the 2nd Airlift Squadron recently hosted an event known as the "Coalition Dinner." According to Lt. Col. Howard Ward, 2nd AS commander and deployed commander of the 737th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron, "The purpose of the event is to build friendships amongst the coalition partners assigned to Ali Al Salem Air Base and our folks did exactly that in "Second to None" style." Despite differences in nationalities, language and culture, they quickly found common ground as Airmen and had conversations like they'd known each other for years. The coalition attendees were comprised of many occupational skills from the Japanese Defense Forces and Republic of Korea Air Force aircrew, life support, communications, psychologist and all enjoyed sharing their experiences and learning about life in the Air Force of another nation. One of the interesting topics of conversation was X-Box regardless of language, everyone seemed fluent in this aspect of pop culture. Senior Airman Nick Alarcon, 2nd AS loadmaster, seemed to be the "ambassador" leading a lively discussion with several participants on the finer points of successful X-Box gaming. Perhaps the highlight of the evening was dessert; this favorite of American dining is not universal, but all participants were very anxious for the final course of the evening. Squadron members introduced their guests to pie al a mode bringing smiles that could be understood in any language. All in all it was a great night for the participants. Everyone learned a valuable lesson on looking for the things we have in common and appreciating the differences while making "Second to None" friends along the way.