319th Civil Engineer Squadron Leads the Way

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Xavier Navarro
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The 319th Civil Engineer Squadron does not let the snow and bad weather cause them to fall behind on their mission.

Instead they lead the way by clearing a path to greatness. They were recently recognized for their teamwork and two individuals who dedicated their time to the Air Force.

Though three separate awards were given to two recipients and their unit, the accomplishments and achievements did not come without teamwork throughout the entire year.

Kenneth Palm, 319th Civil Engineer Squadron Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning maintenance mechanic, was named the Air Force Outstanding Civil Engineer Manager of the Year for 2014. He has served with the government for 30 years, and to him the award recognizes employees throughout their career help provide a significant impact upon the Air Force mission.

"I am honored and humbled about winning this award and representing Grand Forks Air Force Base," said Palm. "I didn't even know I was being nominated for the award." 

Another award recipient, Senior Airman Myles Hoffman, winner of the Maj. Gen. Eugene A. Lupia Award for the year 2014 for his outstanding contribution to the electrical system career field as a civil engineer Airman mentioned about the great work he has done with his squadron and volunteer opportunities throughout the year.

"This award means a lot to me," said Hoffman, 319th Civil Engineer Squadron electrical systems journeyman. "Right now this award just shows me that hard work pays off, and I have to keep on giving 100 percent to progress throughout the year."

If winning two individual awards were not enough, the squadron also won the Balchen Post Award for Outstanding Achievement in Snow and Ice Control. The purpose of the award is to promote better snow and ice control.

The 319th CES was engaged in nine severe weather events in 2013 and 2014, a season snowfall of 85.2 inches with zero accidents and injuries. They also fought 115 snow and ice events despite manning being at 25 percent.

"Teamwork is crucial to our success, both internal and external to the squadron," said Lt. Col. Edward Phillips, 319th Civil Engineer Squadron commander.  "It's a myth that when something breaks, a little light goes on in CE. That would be useful, but without our customers, we wouldn't know what is wrong."