Flightline fitness goes around the clock Published June 4, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Eboni Knox 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs RAF LAKENHEATH, England -- Liberty Wing officials opened a 24-hour fitness center annex near Hangar 7 on the flightline June 3, for all active duty members and civilian employees. Maintenance Group leadership felt the need for a gym that fit the non-stop flightline operations. "The new fitness annex helps with the quality of life deficit that we as maintainers face with the different shifts required of us," said Master Sgt. Thomas Oakes, 48th Maintenance Operations Squadron NCO in charge of programs. Since hours revolve around aircraft needs, the 24-hour gym is convenient to help the maintainers' keep up on the physical fitness. "The continuous availability of the gym is added an incentive for maintainers and other base members to stay fit," said Sergeant Oakes. The gym consists of treadmills, stationary bikes, free weights, and more. The restroom and showers are in the planning stages. Maintainers are grateful for the addition to their workplace. "The base gym closes before I get off work and it's hard for me to find the time go outside of work," said Airman 1st Class Aubrey Sloan, 492nd Fighter Squadron weapons systems apprentice. "I'm very appreciative of the new fitness annex because it's so close to my workplace and I can go after or before work." Due to the fact that there is no permanent staff at the flightline gym, a pin number is required for entry. For more information contact, 48th MOS programs office at 226-4638.