Airmen give back during holidays Published Dec. 18, 2009 By Senior Airman R. Michael Longoria 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Even during the Year of the Air Force Family, where the focus is on servicemembers and their families, Airmen from the 319th Air Refueling Wing took time to give back to families outside the base community. More than 25 Airmen from Grand Forks Air Force Base spent Dec. 11 through Dec. 18 helping the local Salvation Army prepare toy bags and food boxes for 420 families in Grand Forks County and the city of East Grand Forks. "Without these toy bags and food boxes, some of the families in the area wouldn't have anything this holiday season," said Lindy M. Beauchamp, Salvation Army director of social services. This wouldn't have been possible if these Airmen hadn't stepped up. "We wouldn't have been able to pull-off our holiday distribution without the manpower we received from the Air Force," said Mrs. Beauchamp. "It's not just now; Airmen provide assistance regularly throughout the year as well." The Airmen were glad to help and for some Airmen, it was more than just another bullet for their enlisted performance report. "I volunteered for this because I know how much it means to those that are unable to provide a Christmas for their families," said Airman 1st Class Betsy Hoppin, 319th Logistics Readiness Squadron. Airman Hoppin empathizes with the situation that some of these families are facing. "Coming from a family who went through many hardships and financial issues, it's very rewarding to be able to give the families something they might not have had otherwise," said Airman Hoppin. She also added that it is always important to give back, especially during the holiday season. "These food boxes and toys are the kind of things that get families through tough times," said Airmen Hoppin.