Team Goodfellow members gathered to jump into Lake Nasworthy's 34-degree waters at the Goodfellow Outdoor Recreational Camp for the 12th Annual Polar Bear Plunge Feb. 8.
A total of 291 base personnel and family members signed up and some participants dressed in costume displaying their spirit.
"I think it's a fantastic event," said Airman 1st Class Joshua Rispoli, 316th Training Squadron student. "It gives us a chance to come out and show our squadron morale by dressing as ridiculous as possible and just have fun with our peers."
For others, the event was about the thrill of watching others plunge.
"I'm excited to see everyone's face as they jump into the cold water," said Airman Collin Walmsley, 316th TRS. "I've jumped in 20-degree water before, and it's not too bad actually. Once you hit the water, you just have to go all in, and you'll just become numb. After that, it's not bad."
Once the traditional chest of ice was dumped into Lake Nasworthy, the plunge began with the 17th Training Wing Commander, Col. Kimberlee Joos, leading as the first jumper.
"It was breathtaking and awesome," said Joos after the plunge. "It's the first time I've ever done that, and it literally took my breath away, so my biggest challenge while swimming to the ladder was just making sure I could keep breathing; the swimming part was okay, I had the life vest on, but drawing a breath in that cold water was very challenging."
After the plunge, members gathered for the announcement of award winners for most unit participation, both small and large, and best costume.
Taking home the award for most participation-small unit, was the 17th Mission Support Group. Most participation-large unit, was awarded to the 312th Training Squadron. Best costume was awarded to Army Pfc. Rachael Kinnell, Army 344th Military Intelligence Battalion student, who dressed as an admiral.