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185th members donate loads of food for the holidays

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. William Wiseman
  • Iowa Air National Guard 185th Air Refueling Wing

The 185th Air Refueling Wing kicked off the holiday season by showing the generosity of its members.  The unit’s Top 3 Council sponsored its inaugural food drive collecting over 6,483 pounds of food for a local food bank.

To make things more exciting, the food drive was turned into a contest between the different squadrons on base with the winners getting a uniquely appropriate traveling trophy and a squadron party to be held at a later date. 

“We were made aware of the food insecurities in the Siouxland and wanted to make a difference within the community,” said Master Sgt. Brenda Duerksen, chairman of the 185th ARW Top 3 Council. “All of the squadrons within the 185th ARW competed in a competition to push each other to do more.”

The Civil Engineering Squadron, to include the Fire Department, won the contest by collecting a total of 2539 pounds or an average of 34.12 pounds per squadron member. 

“Everyone enjoys a friendly competition which played a huge part in such a successful drive. So proud to be part of such an amazing organization,” added Duerksen.

The TOP 3 is a council that was put together of the 3 top enlisted ranks. It is one of the most effective ways to contribute to the morale and welfare of our enlisted corp.