Battlestar Galactica docks for sneak-peek at Columbus

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman John Parie
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. (AFPN) --  The Sci-Fi Channel’s mantra -- “Fuel the Imagination” -- was the theme of the night as Battlestar Galactica television series fans invaded the Columbus Club for a celebrity-style sneak preview.

The Season 2 premiere episode of Battlestar Galactica was shown a day early -- Jan. 5 --to approximately 200 eager “Blaze Team” members.

“This is the first time we have done a showing like this at a military base,” said Michael Pilon, an NBC Universal manager of affiliate promotion.

“I think this a great opportunity to show our support to these men and women. The show is a perfect match with its flight and space ties,” Mr. Pilon said. “We tend to do these premieres at space or science museums. But, I feel very fortunate to be able to bring this to the base.”

Battlestar Galactica is a remake of the 1970s television series. Featuring revamped characters -- minus the ‘70s hair -- the show has captured the attention of a younger generation.

“I had a great time at the showing,” said Senior Airman Tabitha Diaz of the 14th Flying Training Wing safety office. “Even though I was seated toward the back, I had a great view of the screen and the sound was terrific.”

The preview was filled with giveaways and souvenirs for the crowd.

“I loved the free popcorn, drinks and candy donated by the commissary. It really gave the night a big premiere feel,” Airman Diaz said. “The best part of the night was when my 7-year-old daughter and I both won prizes during intermission.”

The excitement traveled to the top of Columbus’ chain of command.

“It was an incredible event,” wing commander Col. Stephen Wilson said. “NBC Universal and Cable One put together an outstanding package for the Blaze Team members and their families.

“The crowd was very appreciative of the whole event. It’s not often that a small Air Force training base gets a Hollywood-style premiere brought to them. Cable One and the 14th Communication Squadron did a great job of converting our club into a home theater since our base theater is currently under renovation,” Colonel Wilson said.

While the Columbus team might not be producing space pilots, they left the premiere with a glimpse of what the future might hold for the next generation of pioneers.