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Growing up with a passion for aviation, Airman 1st Class Edward Chmiel has turned his love for flying into a military and civilian career.

Chmiel, an established commercial airline pilot, recently joined the Minnesota National Guard’s Duluth-based 148th Fighter Wing as a crew chief. In this role, he will maintain fighter jets and hopes to take control of an F-16 one day.

“I’d like to fly in the Guard,” said Chmiel. “I am trying to take steps to that now.”

Chmiel’s fascination with aviation began as a child. He recalls growing up near the Chicago O’Hare International Airport. He was mesmerized by the planes flying overhead and knew early on that he wanted to fly. In high school, he dreamed of joining the Air Force. Chmiel joined the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) during his sophomore year, where he earned a pilot’s license.

“We looked at backgrounds of U.S. Air Force Academy cadets,” said Chmiel. “Nearly 25% of them had a CAP background. That’s where I met all my mentors and professional connections.”

The journey to his first flight began unexpectedly, an experience he still finds surreal when he reflects on it, Chmiel said. He heard that a CAP National Flight Academy in Mattoon, Illinois had open student slots three weeks before the academy began.

“We didn’t really know it was happening,” he said.

With only curiosity and a willingness to try, he showed up to the Academy with no expectations. By midweek, something changed.

“They pulled me out of ground school to get my medical,” he recalled, explaining that a medical clearance is required to fly. The next Saturday—graduation morning— I went with my instructor to Effingham, Illinois and soloed at 7.9 hours [of flight time].”

Soloing that early was unusual, but it marked a turning point. As he reflected on his accomplishments that evening, several experienced pilots pulled him aside.

“They said, “Hey, you know you can do this for a job?’” said Chmiel. “I said, “Yeah, that’s what I want to do.”

Since that moment in 2014, Chmiel has flown at least every two weeks, fueling his passion for aviation with every takeoff and landing. However, shortly after his first flight, Chmiel learned that his aspiration of serving in the Air Force wouldn’t be possible because of a medical disqualification. He had eczema, and a decade ago, it was a disqualifying condition for military service. The setback pushed him to focus on a career as a civilian pilot instead.

He moved quickly, obtaining a commercial pilot’s license, completing his degree, and even working as a flight instructor with the Civil Air Patrol. At one point, he was flying as many as 35 days in a row, logging at least five hours of flight time each day. He continued to gain experience to compete in the airline industry. His persistence eventually paid off, but his dream of serving in the military never really faded.

Several years later, while working on an airplane with another pilot, Chmiel learned that joining the Air National Guard was possible without prior active service.

“That got the gears turning in my head,” said Chmiel.

Two days later, he discovered that the Air Force had reclassified eczema as a waiverable condition, reigniting his dream. Chmiel began applying to Guard units in 2020 and eventually joined the Minnesota National Guard in 2024. His civilian aviation career continued to progress; he holds an Airline Transport Pilot certificate, the highest level of aircraft pilot certification.

Despite his busy schedule, Chmiel is committed to supporting the organization that set him up for success. He volunteers with CAP and helps train young cadets in aviation fundamentals while mentoring future pilots.

Chmiel graduated basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base and was recognized as an honor graduate, demonstrating excellence in all areas of academic and military training. To qualify as an honor graduate, traniees must score 90 percent or higher on all written exams, pass all inspections and be recommended by their military training instructor.

His interest in the maintenance side of aircraft isn’t just about improving his skills as a pilot; it’s part of his broader goal to understand every aspect of aviation. Chmiel hopes to commission and become a pilot with the 148th Fighter Wing. He is also looking forward to leadership opportunities with the National Guard.

“For now, I’m focused on the next step, which is becoming the best crew chief,” said Chmiel.

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh
Minnesota National Guard

The Rosemount Beyond the Yellow Ribbon network hosted its ‘Patriots in the Park’ festivities at Rosemount Central Park on June 10, 2025.

The free event, which was open to the public, featured music, entertainment, food, games, giveaways, static military vehicle displays, a fire truck, and interactive information booths.

Onstage, the Rosemount BTYR was recognized for its efforts in supporting the military community. While Stefanie Hurt, BTYR community outreach coordinator, awarded coins to each member of the Rosemount team, Taylor Kristoffe-Jones, BTYR corporate outreach coordinator, provided remarks.

She said the group demonstrates “what’s possible when commitment meets compassion.”

“They make it personal,” Kristoffe-Jones said. “They make it feel like family. And they make the rest of us want to step up a little more. Beyond the Yellow Ribbon has always been about more than a program. It’s a promise–one that says we will never leave our military community behind, whether they’re returning from deployment, navigating hardships, or aging into new needs. And Rosemount? You don’t just keep that promise–you also lead it…You remind us all that while we may serve in different communities, we stand together as one united effort.”

In 2024, the Rosemount BTYR’s support for the military community included rent and mortgage assistance, utility payments, groceries, appliances, car repairs, care packages for deployed service members, holiday meals, holiday gifts for veterans in assisted living, recognition for high school military recruits, and scholarships for veterans attending community college.

Rosemount BTYR also hosted a Veterans Day banquet and free bowling[O(1] [MA2]  n[O(3] [O(4] ight for military families and supported numerous military causes and area events.

The group received a certificate of appreciation signed by Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s adjutant general, and Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Erickson, Minnesota National Guard’s command senior enlisted leader.

In addition, local resident and Army veteran, Ken Talbert, 96, for his military service. Talbert served in the Army for two years during the Korean War and received the Combat Infantry Medal.

After his military service, he attended college and earned a teaching degree. He taught accounting in Rosemount for 34 years until he retired in 1991. Talbert and his friend, Ted Northwick, co-managed the project to build the Rosemount Veterans Memorial at Rosemount Central Park. The evening’s celebration was designated as Ken Talbert Night.

There are 50 BTYR community networks across Minnesota. To learn more, visit MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr.

By Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

At just 22 years old, Spc. Aidan McGill, a Saint Paul native, and military police officer assigned to the Stillwater-based 34th Military Police Company, is making strides in both his personal and professional life.

McGill enlisted in June 2022, after his freshman year in college. Having graduated from Saint Thomas Academy, an all-boys catholic college preparatory and military high school, McGill realized something was missing in his life.

“I wanted that piece of me,” said McGill. “I really enjoyed the structure and brotherhood [from high school] and so I enlisted that summer, right between my freshman and sophomore years of college.”

McGill originally chose his military job as a police officer because he was interested in the field. He spent nearly five months at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri for one-station unit training.

“It was a humbling experience,” he said of initial entry training. “They definitely break you down, but they build you up even stronger.”

After returning home, McGill took a different path for his civilian career. This spring, he will graduate from the University of St. Thomas with a degree in business operations and supply chain management and a minor in business analytics. In June, he will begin an 18-month leadership development program with a large financial company, all while continuing to serve in the Minnesota National Guard.

Throughout his career, McGill’s drive for success has opened doors for him. In 2024, his leaders selected him to become the guidon-bearer for the 34th Military Police Company. This honor is typically given to the Soldiers with the highest Army Combat Fitness Test score. That achievement also presented the opportunity for him to apply for and ultimately attend the 52nd Norwegian Reciprocal Troop Exchange, known as NOREX, in Norway. The exchange is the longest-running military exchange partnership in the Department of Defense.

“It was the coolest Army experience I’ve ever had,” said McGill, who spent nearly two weeks living and training in the harsh Norwegian wilderness, sleeping in hand-made snow caves, skiing up mountains, pulling sleds, and learning winter survival skills from Norwegian service members. “I thought I knew the cold being from Minnesota, but I learned so much more, like how to layer; even how different fibers work. It was a totally different level of training.”

More than the physical challenge, McGill walked away from Norway with new relationships that continue to show up in surprising ways.

“I did the Norwegian Ruck [March] in Arden Hills,” said McGill. “I started pointing people out, ‘I went with him, her, him…’ it was incredible how many people I knew. Even [while supporting the] Best Warrior Competition, I ran into people from NOREX.”

For McGill, these relationships are central to his service. He credits noncommissioned officers above him for helping him grow. Though still early in his career, McGill is already starting to think like them.

“To me, the ‘Future Faces of the Force’ are those leaders, at any rank, who others look up to,” he said. “It’s about setting an example that others want to follow.”

McGill believes that discipline and consistency are the core to success.

“Consistency over time takes discipline,” he asked. “Staying involved, being a lifelong learner, that’s what’s worked for me.”

It is advice he often shares with friends considering joining the military.

McGill’s voice softens when he speaks about his fiancée, Brooke, who he will marry at the end of the month at the same church he grew up attending.

“I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without her,” he said. “She supports me emotionally, personally, and academically. She is the one pushing me to be the best version of myself.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh
Minnesota National Guard

For Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Douglas Watson, 34th Infantry Division, the Month of the Military Spouse, celebrated every year in May means recognizing and acknowledging the unique role military spouses have in a service member’s life.

Doug is especially thankful for his wife, Amy.

“I could not have achieved what I have in the military without the support and sacrifices my wife has made,” he said.

Doug and Amy have four children – Brody, 15; Brockton, 12; Evelyn, 11; and Elliana, 8. Amy said military spouses take on many roles, ranging from parent and keeper of the schedule to lawn maintainer, house cleaner, snow remover, and more.

“At times, I am a single parent while my spouse is on a mission abroad. Taking on the role of independent parenting while still trying to include your soldier and keep them relevant in your kids’ lives is very difficult,” Amy said. “Feeling like your marriage is put on pause for nine months to a year and trying each time to find a new normal is difficult and then reintegrating the soldier back into the routine that may have changed since they left. Drill weekends often cutting into family events or kids’ sporting events is tough. The kids don’t like it when Dad has to miss their stuff.”  

Amy takes it all in stride.

“I may have challenges in this lifestyle, but I feel my challenges are minor compared to my soldier who misses out on chunks of our lives,” Amy said. “I don’t know that I could leave my family for periods of time. I feel that all these challenges help to make me a better person, help me to appreciate what I have in my spouse and our family.”

Amy also sees being a miliary spouse as a learning experience.

“I truly have learned a lot of what I am capable of because of deployments,” she said. “I finished my degree, fixed a washing machine, changed a car battery, fixed a dishwasher, taught drivers ed to our son, and managed a driveway in one of the worst snow seasons on record. Without my soldier being gone, I may not have attempted many of these things or stretched the boundaries of what I am capable of accomplishing.”

Amy has also established friendships with other service members and spouses and has enjoyed  volunteering and participating in events.

“I have had the opportunity to volunteer with the Soldier & Family Readiness Group, help put on three successful Family Day carnivals and have had great opportunities from Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and other organizations, like attending a Twins game, a Wild game, and even a spa day for spouses,” she said.

Doug would like to let all military spouses know that they are appreciated not only during the Month of the Military Spouse, but throughout the year.

“I can’t say it enough, it’s great having a support system you can count on to handle things when a soldier’s mission takes them elsewhere,” he said. “Without the support of military spouses, we would not be as successful.”

Amy would like to let her fellow military spouses know, “You are amazing.”

“But don’t forget the beauty in being challenged. Challenges help us discover what we are capable of and when we have taken on more than we should and need help from others. Don’t feel bad for relying on others, be grateful for all the amazing support we are fortunate to have,” Amy said. “When times get tough as a spouse or soldier, reach out, I guarantee you’ll find a battle buddy who can listen or share in your frustration. The military is one big family support group. If you feel alone, ask for help or get involved. No matter what, please know you are amazingly resilient and capable of great things.”

Amy encourages employers and community members to support the military spouses in their workplaces and neighborhoods.

“Military spouses are hard-working individuals who manage to make the impossible possible at times, but who sometimes forget to ask for help when they’re drowning in a to do list,” Amy said. “Unlike military bases, the next National Guard family going through the same deployment cycle may live many miles away. Our families are all spread out, sometimes making this experience a lonely one. The best thing a neighbor did for me was deliver pizza to my house, so I didn’t need to cook on a drill weekend. Small acts of kindness do make a difference. Whether it’s a meal, yardwork, or a listening ear, we appreciate it.”

By Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

For most of her life, Airman 1st Class Lydia Marsolais never imagined serving in the military. It felt unfamiliar, with everything she knew gathered from movies or history books. However, a desire to follow in her adoptive mom’s footsteps by serving others, and a love for aviation as a private pilot, pushed her towards the discovery of the Air Force. Now, at 21 years old, she is preparing to step into an operations intelligence specialist role with the Minnesota National Guard’s Duluth-based 148th Fighter Wing.

“I was extremely undereducated on how many different job opportunities the military has,” said Marsolais. “I didn’t even know the Air National Guard existed!”

Marsolais, a Minneapolis native, grew up watching her mother, a pediatric nurse for children with cancer and blood disorders, dedicate her life to serving others. The sacrifices, long hours, and emotional toll never affected her negatively. Inspired by this, Marsolais searched for ways to serve in a similar way. She worked as a summer camp counselor and personal care attendant in assisted living homes. But something told her there was more she could do.

“I realized I was ready to kick it up a notch,” she said. “That’s when I found myself in a recruiting office.”

At first, the idea of joining the military was intimidating. She was unsure what it entailed, who it was for, and what opportunities were available. It was not until she began researching independently and listening to firsthand experiences from service members that she began to see herself joining. For her, the Minnesota Air National Guard offered the perfect balance: a way to serve her community, continue her passion for flying, and keep her civilian career.

Choosing a military career field was not easy for Marsolais. She wanted something that would challenge her. After studying for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test and scoring an impressive 87, Marsolais had her pick of careers.

“I absolutely love a good challenge,” she said. “The job description for intel involved topics that I had zero experience in, but I was really interested in learning. It felt like the perfect fit.”

When Marsolais met the 148th Fighter Wing’s intelligence team members, her decision to pursue a career in intelligence was reinforced. Their patience, willingness to answer her questions and welcoming attitudes created a positive impression. Marsolais wanted to be a part of that environment, where curiosity, adaptability and teamwork are important.

Although she has not yet attended basic military training, Marsolais has big goals for her military career. She hopes to deploy multiple times, volunteer as much as possible, commission as an officer and even recruit others to serve as well. She also wants to make a positive impact on others.

“I hope to lead by example to other junior enlisted service members and future [National] Guard members by demonstrating a good work ethic and helping the people around me whenever I get the chance,” she said. “As I move up in rank, I plan to not only take on the leadership roles expected of me but also go the extra mile when I’m able to.”

Marsolais says that her mother has always inspired and supported her throughout her life. She also credits her high school softball coach and band teacher for helping her develop self-confidence and motivation as she grew up.

She plans to complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology and believes studying the subject will give her insight into human patterns that could relate to her military career.

Even though her journey is just beginning, Marsolais is already proving the future of the force is built on service, a drive for success and the ability to rise to new challenges.

“Being a member of the Minnesota Air National Guard allows me to serve the people of this country but also the people of Minnesota,” added Marsolais. “I have lived here my whole life and have countless wonderful experiences, all thanks to the Minnesotans I’ve encountered.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh
Minnesota National Guard

Two Minnesota National Guard Soldiers, Army Spc. Dan Whited of Moose Lake and Army Sgt. Devon Shaw of Elk River represented the state at the Region IV Best Warrior Competition, held April 30 to May 3, at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. The competition brought together 14 of the region’s top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers for a test of combat readiness, tactical knowledge, and physical fitness.

Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Rost, who has led Minnesota’s involvement in Best Warrior for nearly a decade, emphasized the competition’s focus on building lethality and improving unit readiness.

“At the direction of our federal leadership all military services and components have been directed to focus on the essential functions of our nation’s defense – which is led by our ability to build lethality,” said Rost. “In practice, this translates to individual and squad-level capability. The Best Warrior Competition highlights the skills and proficiencies that make all Army Soldiers functionally lethal – the ability to shoot, move, and communicate.”

Rost noted that the 2025 competition was the most immersive and challenging he has seen.

“Our competitors dove headfirst into it,” said Rost. “They were all challenged in unexpected ways – and their attitudes and character carried them through to the end.”

Whited, an infantry Soldier with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment, and Shaw, a horizontal construction engineer with the 850th Engineer Construction Company, advanced to the regional event just days after competing at Minnesota’s competition.

Both Soldiers were tested on a wide range of warrior tasks, including marksmanship with the M4 rifle, M17 pistol, and M249 squad automatic weapon, as well as the Army Combat Fitness Test, day and night land navigation, an appearance board, written exam, combat water survival, a confidence course, and a 12-mile ruck march.

“It’s very good knowledge to test on,” said Whited, recognized as the runner-up in the Soldier category. “It shows that everyone needs to be constantly [learning]. It’ll be good to bring this knowledge back to the unit and our section to help train them.”

Whited, who has competed in multiple state competitions and now twice at the regional level, said that land navigation was his favorite challenge.

“You’re disorientated when you get out there,” he added. “It was unique because you started in the morning for the night land navigation and then it progressed into the day.”

For Shaw, competing in the noncommissioned officer category was a test of individual performance and a chance to lead by example. He hopes to be an inspiration to younger service members.

“It’s a great way to show Soldiers what it means to excel,” added Shaw. “The Best Warrior Competition builds the esprit de corps. My favorite part was meeting all the other noncommissioned officers and Soldiers from other states. We all became a team despite being competitors.”

Looking ahead, both Whited and Shaw have big plans for the future. Whited hopes to continue competing in competitions like this and possibly sponsor another Soldier one year. Shaw is looking to attend both the U.S. Army’s Sapper Leader Course and the Drill Sergeant Academy. He hopes to run a marathon and complete a full Olympic triathlon and Ironman before turning 25.

Rost emphasizes that supporting competitions like this is still critical as resource priorities shift across the Army.

“We must carefully focus and prioritize resources to maximize efficiencies and provide the ‘most bang for the buck’ moving forward,” added Rost. “While the Best Warrior Competition at the State and the National level highlight our Soldiers and NCOs core competencies, resourcing these competitions moving forward must be carefully maneuvered and balanced against organizational readiness and priorities.”

Beyond individual recognition, the competition is a powerful tool for professional development and esprit de corps for those who participate and the units they return to. It reinforces foundational Soldier skills while celebrating excellence within the enlisted ranks.

“At its core, competition drives innovation, inspiration, and improvement,” said Rost. “While the Army has several competitions across its service, the Best Warrior Competition/Best Squad Competition is unique in that it is designed specifically to highlight enlisted Soldiers. Enlisted Soldiers make up nearly 80% of Army formations – so a competition which highlights the very best of this cohort demonstrates to our service, our nation, and our world what makes the United States Army world class – it’s Soldiers.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh
Minnesota National Guard

The Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon will be recognized for 15 years of supporting Minnesota’s military community during a city council meeting at Hugo City Hall at 7 p.m. March 17. 

Guests are invited to a social hour at 6 p.m. Photos, messages of thanks, awards, and certificates of appreciation that the Hugo BTYR has received through the years will be on display. Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, the Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General, will be a guest of honor. Hugo joined the BTYR community network in 2009, becoming the second BTYR city after Farmington.

Chuck Haas, Hugo BTYR president and chair, has several family members who served in the military, and he has been part of the group since its inception. Haas said he enjoys “supporting the best and brightest of this next generation of soldiers and airmen and their families.”

Some of Hugo’s efforts include meat raffles with the local American Legion, monthly Burger Nights, sending care packages to deployed service members, Secret Santa, Shop with a Cop, and pheasant hunts for veterans, service members, and military youth. As with all BTYR community networks, these events are coordinated and ran by volunteers, and Hugo is never short on people willing to help.

“There are over 400 names on our distribution list for our Red Friday Reports that provide a weekly report on network activities and volunteer opportunities,” Haas said. “In 2024, we hosted ten unit Family Day events, fed over 2,500 service members and families, and there was always an overwhelming response from volunteers to serve. When I send out an emergency need email, the need is met within minutes. Sure, over the years some volunteers have come and gone, but there continue to be folks volunteering to take their place.”

The Hugo BTYR is a nonprofit and is funded through donations from individuals, civic groups, such as the Lions and Rotary, businesses, and VFWs and American Legion posts.

“We raise and spend between $100,000 and $125,000 annually,” Haas said. “Over 15 years, nearly $2 million have been donated through the generosity of those supporting our service members and their families.”

Haas has many fond memories through Hugo BTYR’s 15 years, but one stands out most. He recalled the time he delivered Secret Santa gifts for a solider and her family at Holman Field in St. Paul.

“I had a big pile of gifts and when she came out, I introduced myself and told her I was bringing her family their gifts,” Haas said. “She thanked me and asked which ones were for her. When I said, ‘All of them,’ she teared up, saying, ‘I am a soldier. I won’t cry. I am a soldier.I won’t cry.’ I can’t tell that story without tearing up myself.”

Like Haas, Barb Connolly, Hugo BTYR vice president, has also been with the group since it started. Connolly said volunteering with the group has made her a better person and increased her awareness of others’ needs.

“After my husband passed away, I was looking for a worthwhile organization to volunteer with,” said Connolly, whose husband had served in the Air Force Reserve for six years. “I really enjoy helping at the armories with the Family Days. There is so much to do, and everyone has a great time. Also, most of our packings are very memorable. Meeting all the wonderful people, both military and civilian, working together for a common cause.”

Army Sgt. Maj. Jen Chaffee, 347th Regional Support Group, and her family also volunteers with the Hugo BTYR. Chaffee and her veteran husband were first introduced to the group 13 years ago through its hunting events for veterans and service members. Afterward, she and her husband would contact the group whenever they knew of a service member who needed support.

“The Hugo BTYR has supported the units during multiple Family Day events, assisting families with gifts for the holidays, furniture, utility bills, more gift cards for gas than I can count, and family friendly hunting events,” Chaffee said. “For us, as a family, the Hugo BTYR has helped us with instilling values of service to others, giving back, commitment, and love and support for community.”  

Chaffee said the work of BTYR community networks, like Hugo’s, is important.

“They provide our military and their families immediate support while they wait for the services from the state to kick in if needed,” Chaffee said. “They also provide peace of mind to our military members when they are deployed through helping their families back home with things such as mowing the lawn, snow removal, and those unexpected repairs to appliances or other things that come up while they are away. The support from the BTYR networks during those times away, allow the military member to focus on their job at hand, so they can come back home to their loved ones.”

Army Reserve Chaplain (Maj.) Matt Deitner, 644th Regional Support Group at Fort Snelling, said BTYR networks provide valuable connections to resources and people who are willing to offer their time and knowledge to help others.

The Hugo BTYR supported Deitner’s family during his deployment.

“I had a plumbing issue while I was gone, and my wife didn’t know where to turn. She called Chuck and he took care of getting a plumber to the house and the network took care of the bill,” Deitner said. “We had a wooden toy rocking horse break and Chuck was able to connect with a woodworking hobbyist in the network who was able to help fix it and put a smile on my kids’ faces. It was also a huge help that my family was welcomed at their Burger Night to eat for free while I was deployed.”

In addition, Hugo BTYR sent care packages to Deitner’s unit during a deployment and later introduced him to pheasant hunting and other hunters. In return, Deitner pays it forward by volunteering at Hugo’s Burger Nights, packing care packages, and he even assisted with a tree removal for a veteran.

Scott Tacheny, Hugo BTYR’s secretary, and his wife Ann have been part of the network for 12 years. Tacheny’s father, stepfather, and father in-law served in the military. He and Ann became involved when one of their sons joined the National Guard. “So, joining was a great way of supporting his actions,” said Tacheny, who encourages others to also serve their community.

“Volunteering is not for the faint of heart. You often find yourself dealing with many things you are unfamiliar with or out of your control,” Tacheny said. “The first time I worked a meat raffle I was shocked by the large number of people who came out to the event and their generosity.  The first time we were involved in running a concession stand at a University of Minnesota football game was both terrifying and thrilling as well as exhausting and stimulating!”

Tacheny finds volunteering with the Hugo BTYR to be a rewarding experience. He enjoys the many heartfelt thanks from those who have benefited from their efforts.

“They are a true representation of their gratitude for the hard work and what we do as an organization,” Tacheny said. “I would encourage anyone who is looking to volunteer to consider the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon network. You will not be disappointed!”

By Cristina Oxtra
Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon partnered with the Camp Ripley Training Center’s vehicle maintenance shops to provide a welcome home meal on Feb. 13, celebrating the return of Minnesota’s 34th Infantry Division service members from deployment.

The turkeys for the meal that was locally prepared and served to 175 service members were donated by the Minnesota Wild and Hunters Harvest as part of BTYR’s Hero Meals initiative.

Each year during the holidays, Hero Meals also provides food for those in need in the military community.

“By building strong partnerships and using local resources, Hero Meals make a meaningful impact on the military community,” said Stefanie Hurt, BTYR community outreach coordinator. “BTYR is committed to finding new ways to serve those who serve us, ensuring every meal becomes a symbol of appreciation and connection. To the service members of the 34th ID, welcome home, and thank you for your service!”

Story by: Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

Minnesota’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon provided food, warm beverages, and support for participants on the last day of the Minnesota National Guard’s annual cold-weather operations course at Camp Ripley on Feb. 8, 2025.

The 14-day training consists of three phases that tested every ounce of the 70 students’ grit and resilience in extreme cold weather. In the final phase, they traveled on foot in sub-zero temperatures, used land navigation skills, and built camps with a 10-person Arctic tent or thermal shelters made from natural materials. The exercise culminated in a jump into the freezing waters of Camp Ripley’s Ferrell Lake.

“Participants braved the icy depths, hitting the first stage of hypothermia faster than they could yell, ‘Somebody get them a hot coffee and a cookie!'” said Stefanie Hurt, community outreach coordinator for the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, or BTYR, program.

However, through BTYR’s Operation Warm-Up, Hurt and fellow outreach coordinator Taunja Moe Forbes provided 15 gallons of coffee and hot chocolate, granola bars, muffins, and cookies to help the students and staff keep warm or thaw out. The Hugo BTYR network provided donations for the effort.

“Despite the single-digit temperatures, the BTYR crew kept smiles on their faces and hands wrapped around hot drinks,” Hurt said. “If you think it’s hard to stay positive when your eyelashes freeze together, you should’ve seen us power through the cold with enough energy to rival a coffee-fueled snowplow. BTYR’s coffee and treats may have stolen the show because, let’s be honest, a hot cup of coffee is the best way to thaw, but the real MVPs were the brave service members who jumped into the lake and completed the course without hesitation. Cheers to you!”

BTYR’s Operation Warm-Up wasn’t just about coffee and snacks.

“It was about showing up, sharing a laugh, and reminding our service members that the community is behind them, no matter how cold it gets,” Forbes said.

BTYR thanks everyone who helped make this effort possible, especially the Hugo BTYR network.

“Thank you for being the warmth on a freezing day,” Hurt said. “Until next year, stay warm, stay strong, and keep the coffee flowing.”

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon maintains a community and corporate support network that connects agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s veterans, service members, and families in all military branches. Learn more about BTYR at https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr.

By Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

ARDEN HILLS, Minn. – The Minnesota National Guard is hosting its second annual Best Mechanic Competition with military mechanics from around the state this Thursday.

“Competitions like the Minnesota National Guard Best Mechanic Competition recognize and celebrate the skills and expertise of our mechanics,” said Army Maj. Maggie Gregg, Minnesota National Guard’s field maintenance manager. “It is a way to showcase their talent, foster healthy competition, and encourage comradery within the maintenance community and the Minnesota National Guard.”

This is the second annual competition, which was held last year at the Little Falls-based Camp Ripley Training Center. The Best Mechanic Competition consists of a crew served weapons station, finding the maintenance issues of a down Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle, and vehicle recovery. Compared to other Army skill competitions, The Best Mechanic Competition holds a great deal of weight and provides the necessary challenges for Minnesota National Guard mechanics to earn a top place in their skill set.

“Fulltime mechanics are working ceaselessly to ensure units have all the equipment they need to train,” said Army Capt. Thomas Murphy, Minnesota National Guard Arden Hills Armory’s Surface Maintenance Mechanic Supervisor. “The annual Best Mechanic competition allows them to take a day to spend time with other mechanics in the state, and to showcase all their talents.”

The competition will start at 9 a.m. with a round-robin rotation for the six-person teams in seven events. Each team will be strategically made up of a variety of skilled personnel from the mechanic units in the Minnesota National Guard, specialty departments, and maintenance shops.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the event on May 9 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., located at the Field Maintenance Shop, 4843 Hamline Ave N, Arden Hills, Minn. Media can RSVP to Maj. Jodine Eells at 952-237-3136 or jodine.l.eells.mil@army.mil.

– About the Minnesota National Guard –

Established in 1856 and headquartered in St. Paul, the Minnesota National Guard has more than 13,000 Soldiers and Airmen who serve in 58 communities across the state. The Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen of the Minnesota National Guard are ‘Always Ready’ to fight the nation’s wars, protect the country, respond to state emergencies, and contribute to local communities. For more information about the Minnesota National Guard, visit https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil.

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The Minnesota National Guard had a busy 2024, supporting state activations, federal deployments and a variety of other missions. These accomplishments would not have been possible without the people who serve the organization and the state of Minnesota.

“Our people are our greatest resource,” said Maj. Gen. Shawn P. Manke, the Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard. “Without their courage, commitment, and resilience, we could not achieve our mission or meet the demands of today’s complex challenges.”

The organization saw four state activations, with four Soldiers activated in May to assist in the Minnesota Boundary Water Search and Rescue, and 60 Soldiers were activated in June to assist with flood response. In July, 129 Soldiers and Airmen were activated to assist with the Republican National Convention in Wisconsin, and in October, 24 Airmen and Soldiers were activated to assist with Hurricane Helene efforts in North Carolina, while 13 Airmen were activated for Hurricane Milton efforts in Florida.

For federal deployments, in February, two Airmen with the 133^rd Fighter Air Wing deployed to Qatar, and in March, 536 Soldiers from the 34^th Infantry Division deployed to Kuwait, Jordan and Qatar. That same month, 25 Soldiers from the 147^th Human Resources detachment 3 and 4 returned home from Kuwait and Iraq. In April, one Airman from the 133^rd Air Wing deployed to the United Arab Emirates, and four Soldiers from the 2-245 returned from Columbia. In May, 24 Soldiers from the 247^th Financial Management Services Detachment deployed to Iraq, two Airmen from the 133^rd Air Wing returned from Saudi Arabia, and five Soldier’s with the 1903 Acquisition team returned home from Djibouti. In June, two Airmen with the 133^rd deployed to Kuwait. In July, 312 Airmen of the 148^th Fighter Wing deployed to Japan, and in August, 55 Soldiers of the 204^th Medical Company-Area Support deployed to Iraq. September saw five Soldiers of the 1904 Acquisition team deploy to Kuwait, and 35 Airmen from the 133^rd Air Wing left for Kuwait as well. In October, two Airmen from the 133^rd Air Wing returned from Qatar, and 312 Airmen with the 148^th Fighter Wing returned from Japan. December saw the return of 536 Soldiers with the 34^th Infantry Division return home from Kuwait, Jordan and Qatar, and two Airmen from the 133^rd Air Wing came home from Kuwait.

In addition to supporting and investing in its people, the Minnesota National Guard focused its efforts on the modernization of infrastructure, equipment, training and policies.

There were multiple facilities updates made, including a groundbreaking for a new armory in April that took place in New Ulm. The new facility $20.7 million facility will be 40,600 square feet and is part of the Minnesota National Guard’s Readiness Center Transformation Master Plan focused on building a new environmentally and economically sustainable training centers.

Notably, Minnesota was one of only eight states selected to receive the C-130J Super Hercules model aircraft.

“This modernization will secure the 133^rd Airlift Wing’s flying mission well into the future,” Manke said.

Other equipment modernization included the 1^st Armored Brigade Combat Team acquiring the M7 Bradley Fire Support Team Vehicle, and in June, multiple units of the brigade conducted driver training, maintenance, and vehicle operation familiarization for the new Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, or JLTV, of which the state received over 300 in late 2023.

Minnesota’s 34th Infantry Division was selected to execute a Transformation in Contact, known as a TIC, while deployed as part of Operation Spartan Shield in the Middle East. TIC is the first phase in the Army’s Continuous Transformation Concept and is one of the most significant organizational changes the Army has undertaken since the end of the Cold War. The 34^th Infantry Division was modernized with state-of-the-art communications equipment, resulting in the unit being one of the most updated in the U.S. Army. The equipment the division received is part of an integrated tactical network, known as an ITN.

Finally, the Minnesota National Guard continued its storied legacy of creating and fostering partnerships.

In June and July, a team of five Soldiers took part in the Adriatic Regional Security Cyber Cooperation exercise in Postojna, Slovenia, working with armed forces partners from seven nations, including Croatia.

Minnesota’s State Partnership Program with Norway featured 23 events between the two and builds upon a 52-year history of cooperation through the Norwegian Reciprocal Exchange, or NOREX. This year, more than 100 Minnesota National Guard Airmen and Soldiers participated in the 51^st annual NOREX from Jan. 31 – Feb. 14. This exchange remains the U.S. Department of Defense’s longest-running troop exchange.

In March, Canada’s 38^th Brigade Group completed their annual infantry foundations training, Exercise Sure-Shot, at Camp Ripley.

“Our partnerships,both longstanding and newly established, extend across Minnesota, the

nation, and the world,” Manke said. “We continue to build on our alliances with Croatia and Norway through the Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program, while maintaining regular training exercises with our neighbors in the Canadian Armed Forces.”

Story by Sgt. 1^st Class Sirrina Martinez
Minnesota National Guard