Warrior of the Week: Staff Sgt. Patrick Eldridge

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Xavier Navarro
  • 319th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  

Name: Staff Sgt. Patrick Eldridge

Unit: 319th Contracting Flight

Duty title: Contract Specialist

Time in service: 9 years and 11 months

Time on station: 3 years and 5 months

Hometown: Grayslake, Illinois

Why is serving in the Air Force important to you? 
Serving in the military is important to me because I come from a long line of relatives that have served our country. Serving in the Air Force is important to me specifically because I feel the Air Force plays a major role in what the military does to protect our nation and I am honored that I am a part of that.

What moment or accomplishment as a Warrior of the North are you most proud of and why?
My most proud moment I've felt was when it was time for my re-enlistment and my father, who retired from the Army after 24 years, came to visit me at Grand Forks in order to administer the oath. I could tell he was very proud and it was a bonding memory neither of us will forget.

What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is the fact that there is something new to learn every day, that it's not just about writing contracts, purchasing supplies and services for the base. Each contract I administer is unique in itself and gives a great insight on what is needed to keep a base running. We deal with every unit on this installation and the work we do is essential for day-to-day operations.

Who or what inspires you and why?
The thing that inspires me the most is that I truly feel that I am making a difference. Being part of the Air Force community is a great feeling and I know I made the right decision in making this a career.

What's the first thing that made you think Grand Forks Air Force Base was a cool place other than the temperature or weather?
Grand Forks Air Force Base is not a place that too many people talk about. I've been stationed at much larger bases and didn't know what to expect when I arrived here. It's actually a nice close-knit community. If you take the time to look, there are a lot of great things to do that you might not have the chance to do at a larger base.