When a “thank you” card just isn’t enough

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Randi Norton
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
It's no surprise that Grand Forks Air Force Base has a special bond with the Grand Forks community. Grand Forks, N.D., and East Grand Forks, Minn., provide base support in many ways. On June 1, the base had the opportunity to say "thank you" by giving a tour to the Golden Eagles Club comprised of leaders in the local community.

"This was a wonderful opportunity to showcase our expeditionary Airmen and highlight the wing's contributions to the Global War on Terror," said Col. Diane Hull, 319th Air Refueling Wing commander. "It's important for our civilian community leaders to understand the Air Force story, as well as know how much their support means to our Airmen and families."

The day began with a wing mission brief followed by a demonstration from the military working dogs. After a tour through the newest dormitory, Barnes Hall and a KC-135 static display, the group was taken to Warrior Land, a display that shows the missions of various squadrons, for their final stop. While there, they were treated to a military tradition few civilians are privy to; lunch from a field kitchen.

Each participant in the tour provides support to the base in his own way. Whether it's organizing Military Appreciation Day events, contributing to the quarterly and annual awards programs, or giving free or discounted ticket to University of North Dakota events, this group of people enjoys taking care of the Warriors of the North.

"The Golden Eagles Club members are area businesses, individuals and organizations that value the contributions made by military personnel to our nation and region," said Dan Shenkein, Grand Forks, East Grand Forks Chamber of Commerce president.

The Golden Eagles Club was formed in 1990 and is a division of the Chamber's Military Appreciation Committee.