319th Services Squadron impresses Eubank team Published Feb. 1, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Ashley Coomes 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The 319th Services Squadron hosted the Air Force Services Eubank evaluation team Jan. 26 for three full days to evaluate some of the 22 programs on base, such as the arts and crafts programs and the Airey Dining facility. The squadron is competing with eight other bases for the Maj. Gen. Eugene L. Eubank award for best small services squadron. The evaluation kicked off with a high-energy briefing about each of the 22 services programs on base. "Everyone is passionate about their program, which started the evaluation off well," said Maj. Paul Swenson, 319 SVS commander. The evaluation team looked at each area and talked to the staff members who facilitate the programs. They also talked to the customers and assessed their comments. The team commented on how "extraordinary" the programs are and how "outstanding" the people are. "We already knew that," said Major Swenson. The evaluation team was especially impressed with two particular programs, the support to home school physical fitness program and the aquatic center, which they would like to benchmark at other bases, said Major Swenson. The aquatics center runs 100 hours a week, unlike most Air Force aquatics facilities. Other bases, like Minot Air Force Base, N.D., charge a fee for recreational swimming. "The aquatic program is very important to wing leadership here, and that is why we have a great program and are able to keep it open for our members and their families," said Major Swenson. The team also recommended the squadron compete for the Innkeeper award (for lodging) and the John Hennessy award (for the dining facility). One team member commented they had the "best sleep on their tour" at Grand Forks Air Force Base lodging, said Major Swenson. Overall, it was a great visit, according to Major Swenson, and he is confident the 319 SVS has a good chance to win the Eubank award.