AF family aids Team Minot Airmen Published Sept. 15, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Hernandez Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- As a leading organization in assisting Airmen and their families during Minot's flood recovery efforts, Operation Warmheart has continued to ensure charitable funds help those in need, distributing more than $107,000 in aid here. To date, Operation Warmheart has received a total of $197,000 in charitable contributions from around the globe. Master Sgt. Patrick Lund, 5th Force Support Squadron first sergeant and Operation Warmheart chairman, said donations have come in from a variety of individuals and organizations including chiefs groups, airman leadership school classes, spouses clubs, and first sergeant councils among many others. Most recently, Minot AFB chaplains presented Operation Warmheart with a $110,887 check donation on behalf of the Air Force Chaplain corps. Col. Gerald MacManus, command chaplain for Air Force Global Strike Command, said they sent a letter out to all of the commands and their wing chapels proposing the idea of taking up a designated offering for the intent of supporting the Airmen and their families affected by the flooding in Minot. "There is no doubt the Air Force chaplain corps' number one priority is warrior care and it is very much echoed and supported in the priorities of the AFGSC mission," said MacManus. "This goes beyond just helping our Airmen. If we take care of them and support them, ultimately, it helps them fulfill their mission." MacManus said he hoped those who donated are made aware of the fact that they have enhanced the security of this nation because they have stepped forward and assisted in a time of great need. "Those Airmen fulfilling their job day in and day out are our security and anyone who assists them surely plays their part in maintaining the security of this nation," said MacManus. Lund explained he was amazed to see individuals place people first and offer their full pledge of support. "There are organizations on base that are holding events like car washes to help support Operation Warmheart," said Lund. "It's amazing how we have even received contributions from deployed members." According to Lund, on average, grants of up to $1,000 are being granted to Airmen, to help offset flood related rebuilding costs. "Airmen have come to us seeking help in rebuilding efforts," said Lund. "The grants we offer are helping them pay for water heaters, sheetrock, HVAC, lumber, electrical, and personal necessities and supplies." He said some are using the funds to hire contractors or buy equipment to help clean up their homes themselves. "Many have had to deal with black mold and these grants can help Airmen afford expenses necessary to help them rebuild," said Lund. "From bottom up, we are helping them out." Those interested in donating funds to Operation Warmheart can mail contributions to Operation Warmheart care of Minot Flood Fight at 291 Peacekeeper Place, Minot AFB, N.D. 58705.