For 13 1/2 years, Sgt. 1st Class Darrell Rowe has served in the Army. And during that time he has never seen anything like Joint Base Lewis-McChord's newest addition: the Warrior Zone.

"If I was a single Soldier this would be the place to be," he said. "It's money well spent."

Rowe was one of the first to try out the high-tech toys as the Warrior Zone opened for business Jan. 27 on JBLM Lewis North next to Wilson Sports and Fitness Center. The multi-million dollar facility includes 53 high-definition TVs, video and computer games, a 15-foot movie screen and much more. The Warrior Zone is open to active-duty members 18 years and older.

"Coming from the Air Force side, this is amazing," said Staff Sgt.Brian Kendall of the Western Air Defense Sector. "My first impression was disbelief coming through the door. They spared no expense."

Representatives of Better Opportunities for Single Servicemembers and the joint base command teams did the honors of cutting a ribbon as part of the grand opening ceremony.

"This is exactly what Soldiers and Airmen needed," said Spc. Monique Miranda, BOSS president. "We are here to bring them the best electronic, tech-savvy things."

Located near the barracks on JBLM Lewis North, the Warrior Zone is also the new home for BOSS.

After the ribbon was cut, patrons filed in to try out the Brunswick pool tables, play the video and computer games and order food. There was also a DJ on the outdoor patio.

Rowe and three others sat around one television as he played a game of Modern Warfare 3. The sound dome above them made Rowe feel like he was in the game, he said.

It was a smooth opening for the Warrior Zone staff as they didn't have to deal with any glitches.

"My biggest fear is the balloons getting stuck in the ceiling," said recreation manager Elizabeth Thunstedt.

Later in the evening there were video and computer game tournaments, as well as an 8-ball pool tournament.

JBLM is just the second installation to have a Warrior Zone, second to Fort Riley, Kan.

The Warrior Zone's coffee and sports bar opens at 6 a.m., while the recreation side opens at 11:30 a.m. daily.

More online

For more information, visit http://www.jblmwarriors.com or visit the JBLM Warrior Zone Facebook page.