Grand Forks refueling squadron to deactivate Published March 10, 2009 GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. (AFNS) -- Grand Forks Air Force Base officials are scheduled to deactivate the 912th Air Refueling Squadron March 20 here as part of the Base Realignment and Closure law of 2005. The squadron's final KC-135 Stratotanker flight out of Grand Forks AFB is scheduled for March 16. "It has been an honor and privilege to lead such an outstanding organization," said Lt. Col. Charles McDaniel, 912th ARS commander. "Even with the closure looming over, (unit members) have never stopped giving it their all for the squadron and the wing." The 912th ARS dug its roots in Grand Forks AFB soil in 1994 as part of the 319th Operations Group. Since then, unit members have been engaged in operations all over the world to include supporting coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Over the past three years, they have logged more than 71,000 flying hours, of which 52,000 were in combat. Airmen of the 912th ARS also supported countless refueling missions at home and abroad, aeromedical evacuation missions and distinguished visitor movements around the globe. The 912th ARS was awarded the Gen. Carl A. Spaatz Trophy in 2007 for the best air refueling squadron in the nation. "Although it is sad to see any unit depart our group, I'm am extremely proud of all (the unit's) Airmen and the noteworthy efforts of the 912th ARS," said Col. Henry Polczer, the 319th Operations Group commander. "They have left a fine legacy, and extended the exemplary heritage of the unit." Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) View the comments/letters page