Airmen appreciate free bowling night

  • Published
  • By Airman Derek VanHorn
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The Grand Forks Air Force Base Air Force Sergeants Association and the Top 3 hosted the second annual Airmen appreciation free bowling night Jan. 8 at Dakota Lanes.

Airmen from across the wing gathered together for a night of free cosmic bowling, appetizers and fellowship.

"The main reason we have this event is to show appreciation to all the Airmen who work here on base," said Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Clouatre, 319th Logistics Readiness Squadron, AFSA and Network 56 member who directly coordinated the event. "It is one way to give the Airmen both a free and good time to all hang out."

"There was definitely a better turnout than we had hoped for," said Master Sgt. Aaron Mulder, 319th Logistics Readiness Squadron. "It is always good to see everyone come out on a Saturday night and enjoy a fun and free event."

Sergeant Mulder is a member of the AFSA, Top 3, and is president of the First Sergeants Council, all which of whom played various roles in preparation and funding for the successful night. The event was open to all Airmen, E1-E4, and their families.

The only lanes that went un-used were four mandatory lanes reserved for any potential bowlers not associated with the event.

"I had a blast. It is fun to get groups of people together and save money at the same time," said Airman 1st Class Rocky Bustos, 319th Security Forces Squadron. "Everyone is excited, and a sports event brings out good competition which is always a bonus."

Along with free food and bowling, four separate $25 gift cards were raffled off throughout the evening. Airman Bustos was a single number off on two separate drawings.

"I thought for sure my number was coming next," Bustos laughed. "There is always next time. I think all of the airmen are thankful for events like this, and we're all looking forward to the next one."

Warriors of the North can expect more fun and variety in the future, as leadership supports rewarding hard-working Airmen.

"Anytime anyone mentions the Airmen, everyone is immediately on board," said Sergeant Mulder. "From Chiefs on down, the support is there to make these opportunities available for Airmen to show our appreciation."