25th Annual Prairie Warrior Auction a success Published March 30, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Hernandez Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT, N.D. -- The 25th Annual Prairie Warrior Association Auction took place at the Holiday Inn-Riverside Hotel here March 26 raising more than $39,000, directly benefiting Air Force Global Strike Command units at Minot AFB. The auction is an annual, community-based event designed to bring members of Team Minot together in support of military servicemembers stationed at Minot Air Force Base. With over 200 items and services auctioned off, participants had the opportunity to bid on selections which included gift baskets, commemorative photos, vacation packages, squadron-donated souvenirs and even an exquisite Warbird-hosted dinner with the 5th Bomb Wing commander and vice commander. Members of the Minot Military Affairs Committee have held the auction for the past 25 years in order to help raise funds. According to Lt. Col. John Dunlap, PWAA project officer, the funds are aimed at enhancing the morale and motivation of all military members assigned to the base. "Proceeds will support booster clubs, Air Force Global Strike Command challenge competitions and base facilities that improve the wellness of Airmen," said Colonel Dunlap. He added it was an eye opener to see the increase in participation this year as it showed the community's support for military members. He was thankful to the various volunteers who came out to help with the event. "It's amazing to see Team Minot members come out and interact with locals," said Colonel Dunlap. "This event really shows the great partnership the base has with the local community." Betty Fedorchak, PWAA chairwoman and event coordinator, said events like the PWAA show the true camaraderie that exists between military personnel and locals. Mrs. Fedorchak has long participated in the auctions, with this year marking the 24th time she's assisted in the PWAA. She said she especially enjoys the friendships established during these events. "Our military has always stepped up to help our community," said Mrs. Fedorchak. "And whenever I get a chance to help out our military, I'm there." She said she was glad all the donations go towards her military neighbors because it is for a good cause and they truly deserve it. "We have great respect for the Airmen who serve our country daily," said Mrs. Fedorchak. "Not just here in Minot, but overseas as well." She thanked all the organizations that made the event possible and expressed her gratitude to all auction participants. "I'm in awe of everything our community has continually done for our military neighbors," said Mrs. Fedorchak. "Events like these would not be possible if it weren't for the great rapport we've established throughout the years." John MacMartin, Minot Area Chamber of Commerce president, was also impressed with the amount of coordination the event had this year. "There was a tremendous amount of work required for this event," he said. "But thankfully, the whole process was as seemless as ever because we had great people working on both sides to ensure its success."