MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- The 42d Force Support Squadron has been named the recipient of the 2025 Maj. Gen. Eugene L. Eubank Award, recognizing it as the top force support squadron in Air Education and Training Command.
The award honors the squadron’s exceptional performance in mission support, customer service, innovation and community partnership throughout the year.
“Earning the Eubank Award means a lot to the Airmen and Civilians in the 42d FSS, this achievement was not built during the easy moments. It was forged through challenges, uncertainty, and perseverance,.” said Chief Master Sgt. Prentice McAfee, 42d FSS senior enlisted leader. “By staying committed to the mission and to one another, the organization transformed adversity into achievements and became the standard of excellence across AETC’s FSS.”
During the award period, the 42d FSS secured the Air Force’s first Intergovernmental Service Agreement to overcome staffing shortages, saving costs while ensuring critical base services remained operational. The squadron also modernized personnel programs, streamlined support processes for thousands of service members and families, and expanded professional military education opportunities for both Airmen and Guardians.
The unit strengthened quality-of-life initiatives by launching food support programs during government shutdown operations, restoring essential morale services and securing major facility renovations across Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base.
Community outreach efforts also played a key role, including revitalized honor guard operations supporting veterans and renewed partnerships that enhanced support to military families and local communities.
“This award reflects the resilience and heart of the 42d Force Support Squadron. This team faced challenge after challenge this year, but instead of backing down, they came together, got creative, and kept finding ways to deliver for our Airmen, families, and mission partners,” said Lt. Col. Diana Hall, 42d FSS commander. “From launching Air Force-leading initiatives to navigate hiring freezes to opening a food pantry during a historic government shutdown, this team proved that resilience and determination can accomplish incredible things.”