FORT GREELY, Alaska -- While many morale, welfare and recreation services have been temporarily closed or service hours restricted due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Fort Greely Physical Fitness Center and Indoor Track remain open, honoring the garrison’s commitment to provide services that maintain mission readiness.

“The decision to remain open was a risk based decision that did not come easily,” said Lt. Col. Joel Johnson, U.S. Army Garrison Alaska, Fort Greely Garrison Commander. “We have instituted numerous safety measures to comply with social distancing guidelines while attempting to balance the health protection of the community and maintain the installation’s critical services and mission readiness.”

Employees who work daily at the Fitness Center have proven to be true professionals.

“Implementing new policy changes and elevating cleaning standards such as hourly sanitation of fitness equipment, while ensuring employees and patrons wear cloth masks at all times, has been challenging,” said Jessica Smith, Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Director.

“Employees have handled the anxiety of the COVID-19 pandemic extremely well. Nothing prepares you for a situation like this,” said Smith. “The staff is taking it day by day and have done an amazing job stepping up to respond to the needs of the installation. I couldn’t ask for a better team.”

Due to the ever changing environment, we must continue to stay flexible as policies change in response to COVID-19.

“Protecting the health and welfare of our Soldiers, Families and Civilians remains our top priority,” said Johnson. “To achieve this, individuals have a social responsibility to protect themselves and those around them.”