Base gets wireless internet

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Randi Norton
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AFB, ND --  Grand Forks Air Force Base - Change is constant. The Air Force is no stranger to changes in aircraft, processes and technology.

Grand Forks Air Force Base is no different when it comes to updating technology, especially in relation to the internet. The 319th Communications Squadron and the 319th Services Squadron have found innovative ways to use the internet to better serve their customers.

Lt. Col. Daniel Liggins, 319 CS commander, said wireless internet has been the biggest update.

"We've installed wireless internet in eight senior leader units of base housing and are Air Mobility Command's test base for wireless internet on the flightline," he said.

The vision is to eventually have wireless internet base wide for official use, pending the resolution of security issues by the Air Force and headquarters Air Mobility Command.

But Grand Forks AFB not only has wireless internet for official use, but for personal use as well. The 319 SVS added wireless internet in the library, the Northern Lights Club and community activity center.

"We've updated the technology in the CAC, like wireless internet and six computers," said Maj. Paul Swenson, 319 SVS commander. "It's basically an internet café where base members can bring their kids, do what they need to do and have some fun."

Wireless internet is not the only update to the base. Things to look for in the future are Internet Protocol Television and Voice over Internet Protocol.

The IPTV program will increase the bandwidth on base computers so users will be able to view television programs such as CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, The Weather Channel and WDAZ (ABC affiliate in Grand Forks). This program is slated to appear on base in early 2007, according to Colonel Liggins.

The VoIP program will allow voice communication over existing current computer networks for official use.

"With the LEAN Air Force, these programs will allow us to improve our processes and do business better and cheaper," said Colonel Liggins.

Improving technology changes how the Air Force does business and how it cares for Airmen and their families.

"The wireless internet and the remodeled club are ways we're improving the quality of life for Airmen and their families," said Major Swenson. "We keep them entertained here and keep them in touch with their deployed loved ones."

The Airman and Family Readiness Center now has video phones that may be checked out by family members to talk and see their deployed family member, said Major Swenson.

Using the best technology to get the mission done and improve the quality of life has always been at the forefront of Air Force thinking.

"Taking care of our people is our number one priority," he said.