News

A new one-of-a-kind program at the University of Minnesota Medical School is providing military medics with an opportunity designed to take their military experience and catapult it into a career as a physician. For medics such as New Prague native Army Spc. Lauren Kitner of the Minnesota National Guard, one of the first to use the program, it has been a way to jumpstart a career that may not have been otherwise accessible.

The Military Medic to Medical School Program (MM2MS) guides medics with the completion of the prerequisites necessary for acceptance to medical school, provides individualized support, and assists students with preparation for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) – the standardized medical admission test required for those applying to medical school.
Open to medics from all military branches, the program was born out of interest from the university, where they sought new pathways for attracting medical school students. One of the faculty members involved with developing this program knows firsthand how valuable military medical experience can be. Retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Dave “Doc” Hamlar is a retired member of the Minnesota National Guard who served 31 years with the Air Force medical community- first as a health service administrator, then as a physician and commander, state air surgeon, and as the assistant adjutant general air for the Minnesota National Guard.
“Medics bring a unique perspective to a program like this,” Hamlar said. “They’ve already decided to be part of something greater than themselves, and they’ve demonstrated they’re willing and able to stay the course when things get hard. Medics have vital experience from military service that will benefit them in the classroom.”
Accepted students are eligible for specialized incentives if they continue to serve as members of the Minnesota National Guard upon becoming doctors. The Guard’s state tuition reimbursement program has a special chapter dedicated to medical students, offering 100% tuition reimbursement at the University of Minnesota’s rate. Additionally, a federal incentive called the Health Professions Scholarship program provides a $2,270 stipend per month to cover living expenses.
“Medicine is much like the military in that it’s not an individual sport,” Hamlar added. “Medical providers depend on their team – nurses, administrators, and therapists – to be successful. Medics are used to that, because they depend on the Soldier or Airman to their left or right. Like the military, this program offers medics the opportunity to be part of something greater to themselves; as medical providers, these individuals would have the opportunity to benefit society for life.”
To date, two medics from Minnesota have been accepted into the program – one of whom is New Prague native Army Spc. Lauren Kitner. “The MM2MS program is truly a program like no other,” Kitner said. “I am honored to be part of a program that not only recognizes but truly values the skills and experiences I have gained as a combat medic. The opportunity to seamlessly transition from military service into medical school, while continuing to serve my community, is both humbling and exhilarating.”
Lauren joined the Minnesota National Guard as a medic when she was 18, during the heart of the COVID-19 pandemic and immediately after graduating from New Prague High School. After undergoing Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Sam Houston, she began her time as a part-time Soldier with the Headquarters & Headquarters Troop 1-94 Cavalry in Duluth, Minnesota. In addition to her service, she pursued her undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota in health & wellbeing sciences, while working as a scribe in the emergency room, as well as engaging in research and volunteer opportunities at Hennepin County Medical Center and Masonic Children’s Hospital, respectively.
Medical providers in the Minnesota National Guard are in short supply, and this program offers the opportunity to provide another source of qualified doctors. The program also offers currently serving providers an opportunity to serve as mentors for students going through MM2MS. Individuals interested in this program can reach out to Army Capt. Alexander Rank, specialty branch recruiter, for more information.

Story By 1st Lt. Austin Stibbe

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

Minnesota National Guard Child & Youth Program State Teen Panel member Lily Johnson represented the National Guard as a delegate at the Joint Service Teen Council Summit held June 1-6 in Pentagon City, Virginia.

Johnson, who also serves as the Army directorate teen panelist representing the Army National Guard, was one of 17 military teen representatives from all of the services and components who presented to the nation’s top leaders on issues that affect today’s military youth.

“During a special briefing held at the Pentagon, we presented concerns, including the challenges that geographically dispersed youth face, as well as how some official documents are redacted and affect the eligibility of Gold Star youth,” Johnson said. “The council was made up of teens from military bases around the world, each bringing a diverse perspective to the table. Our collaboration leads to strong connections and teamwork.”

The teens also toured Washington, D.C. and visited the national monuments during the five-day summit.

“This experience not only strengthened our leadership skills but also our understanding of the overall impact we can have in the military community,” Johnson said.

Story by Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

In early May, the 210th Engineering Installation Squadron, Minnesota Air National Guard, and 205th Engineering Installation Squadron, Oklahoma Air National Guard, came together at Camp Ripley Training Center for a joint training exercise known as the May Fly Away, which focused on strengthening mission readiness and building unit cohesion.

The multi-day field training provided hands-on experience in critical operating areas, including CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive) response, confined space entry, geospatial survey, fiber optic cable installation, and vehicle operations. These scenarios were designed to simulate deployed environments and sharpen skills critical to real-world missions.

“Training with the Oklahoma unit was a great experience,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Victor Stark, 210th EIS. “The engineering section was very positive and offered valuable insight into the review process. It provided an excellent opportunity for team building and cohesion.”

In addition to the mission-focused training, the exercise featured an “[Engineering Installation] EI Olympics” competition, a spirited challenge between the two squadrons that tested speed, problem-solving, and teamwork across a series of events. The competition brought out the best in both squadrons, fostering camaraderie and healthy rivalry.

“The energy during the EI Olympics was electric,” said U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Charlie Stenzel, 210th EIS. “It was a fun, competitive environment that really brought everyone together. It helped us build a stronger connection with another squadron in the EI community.”

When the dust settled, the 205th EIS emerged as the winner, earning bragging rights until next year’s rematch. The May Fly Away not only enhanced operational proficiency but also reinforced the importance of collaboration. Experiences like this ensure both squadrons remain mission-ready and connected – on and off the field.

“I was impressed by how well each unit collaborated,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Alan Huntington, 210th EIS. “Everyone had a great attitude, and we really operated as one team. I’m looking forward to seeing what the 205th EIS comes up with when they host the next Fly Away.”

Story by Master Sgt. Erin Barry
Minnesota National Guard

Through an effort dubbed Operation Food Fairy, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, in partnership with Meals from the Heart, provided 100 bags of groceries to those in need in the military community on July 11.

Meals from Heart volunteers packed the grocery bags and then BTYR volunteers delivered them to armories and bases across the state. Tom Thiets, Meals from the Heart president, said the nonprofit organization does this “because it’s the right thing to do.”

“They serve us. We have to make sure they’re taken care of,” Thiets said.

Barb Jorgensen, Meals from the Heart volunteer, has family members who served in the military, and she enjoys lending a hand.

“It’s just doing such a great service,” Jorgensen said. “It fills my heart to know that these people need things, and we can give it to them.”

Besides giving her time, Jorgensen and her family donated to sponsor a hole at this year’s Meals from the Heart 2nd Annual Golf Tournament.

For the past five years, Meals from the Heart has been a BTYR partner in providing food for the military community, and it is able to do this through donations and fundraisers, such as the golf tournament. To register or support the tournament on July 21, go to https://mealsfromtheheart.org/special-events/golf-tournament/.

Story by Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

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

June 1, 2025 (ST. PAUL, Minnesota) – A retirement event was held for Minnesota Army National Guard Chaplain Colonel Philip “Buddy” Winn Jr., June 8, 2025, in Osseo, Minnesota. Chaplain Winn assumed duties as the State Chaplain for the Minnesota National Guard on March 15, 2020, and is retiring from the military, having served more than 37 years in both the National Guard and the Active Army.

“Chaplain Winn has been such an inspiration to the entire Minnesota National Guard in so many ways. His legacy and what he has put in motion for the future are equally powerful motivations within our formation and the community,” said Chaplain Keith Beckwith, Operations Chaplain for the Minnesota National Guard.

When the term “Military Service” charges with muddy boots through a person’s mind, the last person people think of in most cases is the unit chaplain. Every service-member remembers their buddies, those on the line with them through hot and cold, rain and shine. Most people remember their first commanders, that person making decisions during tense times and even mandatory fun. Few remember that crusty senior enlisted person that called them out for having their hands in their pockets and only trying to encourage professional disciplines. Everyone remembers the chaplain, that friendly face that came around to be a mentor or a friend during good times and bad.

Chaplain Winn enlisted in the Minnesota Army National Guard as a 13F, Artillery Forward Observer April 17, 1988. A graduate from Osseo Senior High School, he later attended the Forward Observer Advanced Individual Training course at Fort Sill, Oklahoma in 1989 where he advanced as the Honor Graduate.

Choosing to transfer to the Active Army, Winn was stationed with the 2nd Infantry Division at Camp Casey in the Republic of South Korea during the early 90s and later assigned to the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York, where he served as an Assistant Division Fire Support Sergeant and COLT Team Sergeant. COLTs or Combat Observation Lasing Teams are a sub-specialization within the Army’s 13F career field which trains in the directing of long-range fire such as rocket assisted artillery or GPS guided munitions. In 1994 he left Active Duty and entered the Minnesota National Guard serving in several roles with the 1st Battalion – 151st Field Artillery. – you could say: full-time roles across the 34th Division Artillery.

Through an unexpected turn of events, Winn was set up on a blind date by his brother in early 2000 and ambushed by a lovely woman who he later married the following August. His wife Colette has been by his side through hardships and victories, deployments and times when duty calls. Together they have three children and six grandchildren while still being very active within the greater community. In 2001, following a second choice in his career, Winn answered the call to ministry and entered the seminary. Explaining his decision to his wife Colette, it was her response that made the difference.

“She didn’t say, ‘I think that is what the Lord has in store for you’. She said, ‘I think that is what the Lord has for us’,” commented Winn.

The young couple faced the future together while he continued to serve with the Minnesota National Guard and finish a degree in Information Technology in Management from Concordia University in St. Paul. The events of September 11, 2001 set in motion many changes, but their commitment to be together has stayed for going on 25 years.

“I am more emotional about his retirement than Buddy. This has been our life, our kids’ lives. This will be a change of lifestyle for us all,” said Colette.

He was commissioned as a Chaplain Candidate in 2003 and served with 1st Battalion – 151st Field Artillery in Montevideo, Minnesota until 2006. His accession into the Army Chaplaincy culminated with a master’s in arts degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from Bethel Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota and a promotion to Captain in November 2006.

“A U.S. Constitutional endorsement by the Chaplaincy of Full Gospel Churches (CFGC) is meant for clergy who are led to serve as chaplains in nondenominational churches and networks of churches for military or other federal or state agencies,” added Winn. “It is a tremendous honor.”

In April 2007, Chaplain Winn mobilized with the Minnesota National Guard’s 2nd Battalion – 147th Aviation in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom serving as the Battalion Chaplain. Following that 16-month deployment he was selected for assignment as Brigade Chaplain, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division in July of 2009. He was later promoted to Major and deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation New Dawn and Operation Spartan Shield until 2012.

In 2013, Chaplain Winn was selected as the Full-Time Support Chaplain for the Minnesota National Guard and assigned as Operations Chaplain, and later Command Chaplain for the 34th Infantry Division with a promotion to Lieutenant Colonel.

The hard-charging initiative of the leadership team built a Best Unit Ministry Team Competition in 2014 which drew positive attention of leaders from the National Guard Bureau and challenging the skills both tactically and spiritually of the group. In Mid-2015 Winn inspired a Religious Advisors Field Training eXercise FTX on the back end of the readiness exercise known as Vigilant Guard.

He served another tour in Kuwait from 2018-2019 in support of Task Force Spartan as the Command Chaplain before returning to Minnesota and assuming the duties as State Chaplain for the Minnesota National Guard on March 15, 2020.

“Our Chaplaincy here in Minnesota is well known across the nation; the Chief of Chaplains knows us by name. Our team took a serious role in outfitting the formations with a high level of spiritual readiness and prepared them to sustain that during times of stress,” added Winn.

Chaplain Winn led his teams through the process of operationalizing spiritual readiness. From a pilot program into an initiative and finally a full-speed training across the Army. This was done

to support federal missions such as overseas deployments, but state missions like disaster response and civil unrest as well. His team supported the largest deployment of unit ministry teams in the history of the Minnesota National Guard during Operation Safety Net in Minneapolis, late 2020, supporting over 7,100 activated Soldiers and Airmen. That team then implemented a collective Prayer for Peace event in eight different denominations along with members of the community and civic organizations.

He worked tirelessly developing and sustaining lifelong partnerships with the US Army Office of the Chief of Chaplains so that the Minnesota National Guard’s Religious Support Teams would always be seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the U.S. Army and the chaplaincy. The service of Chaplain Winn embracing the efforts of his team, mentoring when needed and praising as promised, helped to build effective and engaging ministry teams while supporting programs and initiatives across the force as well as here in Minnesota.

Thank you, Sir, for all that you have done for your community, state, and nation as well as the families and 13,000 Soldiers and Airmen of the Minnesota National Guard.

“All of us in our persistent, imperfect state are critical to the success of our mission. And it has been an honor of a lifetime to serve in your company,” said Winn.

Mr. Tony Housey

Camp Ripley 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

As a veteran with nearly two decades of service, Army 1st Sgt. Steven Cox has had plenty of experience, but his latest achievement took him to a different kind of field – a softball field. Cox, the first sergeant assigned to the Minnesota National Guard’s Faribault-based 224th Transportation Company, recently competed with the 2024 All-Army Softball Team, representing the U.S. Army and the Minnesota National Guard on a national stage.

“Service gives me an opportunity to give back to the city, state, and country,” said Cox. “I enjoy being able to be there and to help others in need.”

Enlisting in 2008, Cox deployed to Kuwait and Iraq with the 1st Battalion of the 151st Field Artillery Regiment the following year. His career has spanned multiple assignments and missions, including participation in the Norwegian Exchange Program in 2011, domestic response efforts during a 2019 winter storm, and 2021 civil unrest.

Yet, among the many chapters of his military service, being selected for the All-Army Softball Team stands out to him.

Cox’s softball journey began when he was 15, filling in on teams with his dad, uncle, and brother Matt. At the time, baseball was his primary sport. That changed in 2011 when he stepped away from baseball and began dedicating more time to softball. Over the years, he has played for several competitive teams, most notably, T’s 13 out of Omaha, Nebraska.

“Softball has become a huge part of my life,” he said. “It’s a team sport, but more than that, it’s a family. My team, coaches, our sponsor, we all put in work together, on and off the field.”

Cox first heard about the All-Army team from fellow Soldiers, including Command Sgt. Maj. Jim Perez, and initially thought it sounded too good to be true. But after moving into a new role in 2023, he received mentorship from Perez and support from his chain of command to finally go for it.

“With his blessing, my commander Capt. Dehn and the battalion commander, Lt. Col. Sarah Witt,” said Cox. “I was able to put in an application and be selected for the event.”

The application required a sponsor from a previous team member and a detailed athletic resume. Cox also focused on maintaining his physical readiness and working on softball fundamentals. He relied on his wife and three daughters.

“This took my entire family’s support,” added Cox. “My wife, Kelly, would hit me grounders, and my three girls, Brooklyn, Lauren, and Aubrey, would help me collect balls from my tee work. We counted one day…120 softballs in our wagon; I’d hit all of them twice.”

Once his application was accepted, Cox traveled to Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where the team hit the ground running. Day one included practice and just one day later, they already had a tournament.

“Each day, we would practice in the morning, work out in the afternoon, and play games at night besides tournament days where we would play the entire day,” added Cox.

Then came the Armed Forces Tournament in Oklahoma City, where the Army team competed against other branches. The Army won the gold medal. At the end of it, they selected players from all branches to play in the B Nationals tournament for the Armed Forces team. Cox was one of the chosen players.

“One-hundred applicants, 25 selected, 15 make the final team,” said Cox. “I took it as every single ball that was hit to me was being looked at, every single ball hit was being graded, so I just kept working as hard as I could.”

Throughout the experience, Cox said the leadership of his coaches, Coach Mason and Coach Custodio, made a lasting impact.

“They didn’t just make me a better player; they made me a better person, leader, and family man,” added Cox. “I thought I was all about teamwork before, but at drill, I now speak differently about what we are trying to complete that day. I learned how to really care about others because of the way that they were caring for me.”

Reflecting on the experience, Cox said the proudest moment was hearing his name during the opening ceremonies.

“It gave me goosebumps,” he said. “I’ve played in national tournaments before, but nothing like this. The support I got from my boss up to the adjutant general was not unnoticed.”

As the tournament ended and the experience settled in, Cox found himself carrying those lessons back into his leadership style, life, and mentorship of others.

“Learn the basics and keep trying to perfect them,” said Cox. “A great leader starts by being a good follower. We make the odds; go work for it. Be great parents, kids, volunteers, and leaders.”

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

Mother’s Day is a day dedicated to recognizing and appreciating mothers from all walks of life. Their roles and duty to families and their children are immeasurable amidst all the other responsibilities they take on to uphold society. This Mother’s Day, we honor two remarkable mothers who are currently deployed overseas with the Minnesota National Guard’s Cottage Grove-based 204^th Medical Company Area Support. 

U.S. Army Capt. Danielle Purdy is a remarkable 32-year-old mother of two who exemplifies the duality of nurturing motherhood and impactful leadership. She initially enlisted and then commissioned after obtaining her bachelor’s degree in psychology. Her journey took a turn after the birth of her first child when she was inspired to pursue a second degree in nursing. This decision not only provided her with the stability needed to support her family but also allowed her to follow her new-found passion for labor and delivery nursing. As a dedicated mother, Purdy actively participates in her children’s lives, supporting their education and passion for dancing, all while pursuing her own professional goals. During her deployment, she takes on the prominent role of clinic officer in charge, leading more than 30 medical personnel through the unit’s primary mission of health service support. While overseas, she relies on her ‘village’ at home to help take care of her daughters which includes her own mom, Melissa. Her ability to excel in both her military career and her role as a mother serves as an inspiring testament to her commitment to her family and her duty, nurturing her children while also ensuring the well-being of those in her charge.

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Samantha Wolle is a dedicated 38-year-old mother of four, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to raising her children to become strong, independent individuals. With a firm belief in the importance of education and personal development, she actively supports her children’s academic pursuits and athletic activities, fostering an \environment where they can thrive as they navigate through elementary, high school, and university life. Wolle works tirelessly to be present for her children, ensuring they feel her love and encouragement even amid her and her husband’s military commitments. She takes immense pride in their resilience and adaptability, qualities they embody in handling the challenges of a military family. During her deployment, Wolle serves as the medical logistics noncommissioned officer in charge, where she plays a vital role in ensuring that medical supplies are available for her team, reflecting her commitment to both her family and her duty to serve. Her ability to balance motherhood with her responsibilities in the military exemplifies the strength and character she instills in her children, preparing them for their own journeys ahead.

As we celebrate this special day, let us reflect on the strength and resilience of mothers everywhere, acknowledging the unique challenges they face and the unwavering love they provide. Their commitment to both family and duty exemplifies the spirit of motherhood, and we are grateful for their contributions, which resonate deeply within our communities.

By Army Sgt. Sam Misoi,
Minnesota National Guard

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon representatives from 20 communities and 29 companies and organizations across Minnesota attended a workshop at Camp Ripley on April 30 to share best practices in supporting the military community.

A statewide program that began in 2008, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, known also as BTYR, establishes and sustains a community and corporate network to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans and service members of all branches and their families.

“The strength, preparedness, and well-being of our veterans, service members, and their families are influenced by the support they receive from the people in the places where they live, work, and serve,” said Army Lt. Col. Jackie Stenger, Minnesota National Guard’s chief of community engagement. “The Beyond the Yellow Ribbon workshop aims to bring together communities, companies, and organizations to collaborate, build connections, and enhance their efforts in support of our military community.”

The theme of this year’s annual workshop was “What’s Brewing with Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.” While guests sipped on cups of coffee, they listened to presentations, participated in breakout sessions, and engaged in networking activities. They also enjoyed a base tour.

“Our partnerships and collaborations are vital to our success. We are grateful for the care and commitment that you, our fellow Minnesotans, show through your efforts for our veterans, service members, and military families. We cannot do the work we do without you,” said Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General in his welcome remarks. “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon is a shining example of how true collaboration between partnering entities can benefit not just those involved, but also many others beyond them,”

Several community networks, corporate partners, and individuals were recognized for their efforts, including the Minnesota Twins, Land O’ Lakes, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the Maple Grove BTYR, the Big Lake BTYR, and Chuck Haas, chair and president of the Hugo BTYR, which celebrated its 15-year anniversary this past March.

There are currently 50 communities and 87 companies and organizations in the BTYR network. Last year, BTYR communities coordinated over 400 events, performed more than 12,000 volunteer hours, sent over 2,500 packages to deployed service members, and provided an estimated $400,000 in assistance to veterans, service members, and their families. BTYR corporate partners supported over 90 events, contributed more than 4,000 volunteer hours, sent over 750 packages, and provided approximately $350,000 to assist those in Minnesota’s miliary community. To learn more about BTYR, visit MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr.

Story by Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

The Month of the Military Spouse is observed in the United States every May to honor the contributions and sacrifices of military spouses.

Lauren Shegstad is one of the almost 10,000 military spouses of active duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members in Minnesota. She and her husband, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Nicholas (Nick) Shegstad, 133rd Airlift Wing Maintenance Squadron, have been married for 11 years. They have three children – Landen, 11, Kinsley, 8, and Cedar, 6.

Military life includes many challenges for both the military spouse and the service member.

“The unknown is one of the biggest challenges and trying to find people who understand and relate to the military family lifestyle,” Lauren said. “Along with the sacrifice you have to make as a spouse and watching the sacrifice your children make.”

“I worry about leaving Lauren to handle everything on her own,” Nick said. “I know that she can handle it, but I also know that it can be very stressful. When it’s been a tough day at home, there is no tapping out with me so that she can take a break.”

Nick has been deployed eight times, four of which were while being married with children.

“I wouldn’t say that it’s ever easy to have your spouse leave for any amount of time and each new deployment brings its own unique set of challenges, especially with kids,” Lauren said. “All three of our children have special needs and that itself brings their own challenges, physically and emotionally. When routines form a sense of safety, deploying changes all that up. You have to rebuild that both from the deployment and rebuilding upon returning.”

Lauren pointed out that military spouses are tough and can weather through any difficulties.

“We are strong and resilient, kind of our own breed of warrior,” Lauren said. “We have immense pride and respect for what our spouses do.”

But Lauren suggested military spouses should be open to asking for and accepting help, as well as building and using a good support system. She also hopes more connections can be established between military families and the people in their communities and workplaces.

“Being we live in a Guard state, it feels we don’t have the same tight military community that’d make it easier to connect with other military families or to get support from other spouses and even kids,” Lauren said. “It would be nice to see more events hosted to connect families and different community programs, like Beyond the Yellow Ribbon. and maybe drawing in new partnerships that could support families during times of deployment.”

Established in 2008, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, known also as BTYR, maintains an extensive community and corporate network to meet the needs of Minnesota’s veterans and service members of all branches and their families. There are currently 50 BTYR community networks and 87 corporate partners across the state.

Lauren appreciates the Northeast Metro Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and its chair, Dorothy Radermacher, a Vietnam veteran spouse, for the support she and the community network has provided to her family through the years. At this time, as Lauren’s brother is currently undergoing treatment for cancer and Nick prepares to deploy for the ninth time, the Shelstad’s are thankful to have BTYR in their corner to help them.

“God has truly blessed us through Nick’s deployments with the incredible connections we have made with our local Beyond the Yellow Ribbon,” Lauren said. “Dorthey Radermacher of BTYR has not only helped our family in times of need but has been an advocate for us and our military community. That relationship is priceless in a moment of crisis when you feel all alone.”

Nick is pleased to know that there is a Month of the Military Spouse observance every year and more should be done to recognize military spouses.

“I feel that more emphasis would be great with more opportunities to celebrate spouses more publicly,” he said. “Lauren has been truly amazing throughout the 11 years we’ve been together. She is there helping me pack my bags, making sure I am not missing anything, including things I’d never think of, and she is there helping me when I annoyingly wake her up at 4:30 in the morning because I can’t find some part of my uniform. She is truly my biggest supporter. My life would be a mess without her.”

Story by Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

The Minnesota National Guard’s Child & Youth Program hosted Purple Up at Mall of America® on April 25 to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of military youth to the nation. 

“The children in our military families must often overcome difficulties that many people may not be aware of,” said Joy Luedeman, Child & Youth Program lead coordinator. “We want to make sure our Minnesota military-connected youth know they’re valued and their contributions matter, not only to their families, but also to their peers and communities.”

This annual celebration was one of many events during the Month of the Military Child, which is observed every April across the United States Armed Forces. At the event, military youth and their families enjoyed games, character appearances, a photo booth, caricature art, airbrush tattoos, giveaways, treats, and rides at Nickelodeon Universe® provided by Mall of America® and other sponsors.

Purple is the official color of the military child. It is a combination of all the colors of the U.S. Armed Forces — Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard blues, Army green, and Marine Corps red. More than 15,000 children in Minnesota have at least one parent serving in the National Guard or Reserve.

“Mall of America is proud to be one of the many Minnesota businesses that fully support and recognize Month of the Military Child,” said Sara Durhman, director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Mall of America®. “At our core, the mall is about creating memorable experiences and leading from the heart. Many of our team members are veterans or active members of the Reserve and Guard. They lead with heart and go above and beyond every day. They are key to our success.”

There were also other activities throughout April, including contests in art, photography, backpack design, and recipe creation. Families could also request a letter from Governor Tim Walz thanking military youth at minnesotaveteran.org/militarychild.

Story by: By Cristina Oxtra

  Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

For four intense days, 25 service members from the Minnesota National Guard and NATO allied nations Canada and Croatia, pushed themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally through 18 warrior tasks, all for a shot at being named the Minnesota National Guard’s 2025 Best Warrior.

Held April 21-26 at Camp Ripley near Little Falls, the competition was not just about skill; it was about heart. Armed with only a compass, protractor, and map, competitors fought through dense vegetation, fatigue, and doubt — challenging each other and themselves every step of the way.

“You are part of a legacy that is the best warrior,” said Command Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Erikson, the command senior enlisted leader for the Minnesota National Guard. “It is one of excellence, resolve, mentorship, and continuous improvement. Be immensely proud of what you have accomplished over the past four days.”

This year’s event brought a modern, more immersive experience to the traditional competition. Realistic scenarios tested technical knowledge, mental grit, physical endurance, and tactical precision. The goal: to sharpen warriors who can return to their units and be better prepared to lead, enhancing readiness and lethality across the force.

Things kicked off with weapons zeroing on the M4 carbine and M17 pistol. In the evening, competitors put their skills to the test for a night land navigation event. For the following three days, competitors were divided into three rotating groups, facing a new set of challenges each day.

The first lane consisted of a 13.1-mile ruck march, known as a valor ruck. The trek stopped at five memorial stations honoring Minnesota’s heroes. The ruck march was not about endurance but a journey through sacrifice and service. In addition to learning about these heroes, competitors had a chance to experience what they went through.

“It was, by far, the best military and life experience I’ve ever had,” said Croatian Army Pfc. Kristofor Josip Jurjević, from Zadar, Croatia, who serves as a land forces reconnaissance Soldier. “The valor ruck was the most challenging because you’ve got loads of time on your hands, and a lot of things go through your mind while you’re on the course. It was overwhelming both physically and mentally. In those moments, it’s not about ‘oh, I gotta beat that guy,’ it’s a battle between you and time.’”

Among those honored was retired Army Capt. Chad Malmberg, who served with the Minnesota National Guard’s Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 135th Infantry Regiment. In 2007, while leading a convoy in Iraq, then-Army Staff Sgt. Malmberg demonstrated extraordinary heroism. After his unit was ambushed, he directed counterattacks, coordinated fire support, and repeatedly braved direct fire, ultimately saving his convoy from being overrun, preserving the lives of many Soldiers and civilians. Malmberg was awarded the Silver Star, the third-highest military decoration for valor in combat.

Now retired, Malmberg stood among the competitors throughout the competition to witness the impact of a legacy he helped build.

“There are two kinds of battles in life challenges,” said Malmberg to competitors, sponsors, and more than 100 support staff personnel. “There’s the ones that we win, and then there’s the ones that you learn from.”

During the second lane, competitors fired the Mark 19 40mm grenade machine gun before entering a high-stress survival, evasion, resistance, and escape scenario, simulating the demands of combat, captivity, and escape.

For some, the competition was also deeply personal.

Army Staff Sgt. Mason Gumbiner, from Minnetonka, who serves as a cavalry scout with Bravo Troop, 1^st Squadron, 94^th Cavalry Regiment, entered the week just after the loss of his grandmother, a retired first sergeant who helped shape him. With her memory driving him forward, Gumbiner emerged as one of the event’s top performers.

“When things got tough,” said Gumbiner. “I dug deep and thought about my grandma, spending time in prayer. I really relied on my faith and prayed to have my steps guided for me because my strength is not my own.”

Competitors traveled on foot through training areas to find five points at the final lane. At each point, they were tested on a different warrior task, such as disassembling, assembling, and performing a functions check on an M2 50-caliber machine gun, preparing and using a single-channel ground and airborne radio system, and calling for a medical evacuation, firing an M240B machine gun, disarming an M18 Claymore mine, and sending a report of enemy contact. Every action required focus and every second mattered.

Army Spc. Dan Whited, from Moose Lake, who serves as an infantry Soldier with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment, also stood out during the competition. 

“He stayed steady through the whole thing regardless of what was put in front of him,” said Army Staff Sgt. Benjamin Haller, an infantry Soldier assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment, and Whited’s sponsor. “He’s one of those kids that always has a smile on his face no matter what condition he’s in.”

When the dust settled, Gumbiner was named the top noncommissioned officer, and Whited earned the title of top Soldier. Jurjević was named the top international competitor.

Runners-up included Army Sgt. Devon Shaw, from Elk River, a horizontal construction engineer with the 850th Engineer Construction Company, 84th Troop Command and Army Spc. David Bushnell, of Ham Lake, who is a military police officer with the 34th Military Police Company, 84th Troop Command. Croatian Army Cpl. Dario Stegnjaić, from Nova Gradiška, Croatia, who serves as an air defense noncommissioned officer, was named international runner-up.

With Minnesota’s best warriors crowned, the journey is not over yet. Winners will have the opportunity represent the state at the Region IV Best Warrior Competition later this month, hosted by the Wisconsin National Guard at Fort McCoy, where they will face top Soldiers from across the Midwest.

“To the winners, congratulations on your outstanding achievements,” added Erikson. “You have earned this recognition through your exceptional skill and unwavering determination. To every competitor, know that you are all winners in the truest sense of the word. You have dared to challenge yourselves, to push your boundaries, and to embody the warrior spirit.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh 
Minnesota National Guard 

Every April, Month of the Military Child is observed across the United States Armed Forces to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of military youth for the nation. 

Air Force Master Sgt. Devin Duryee, 133d Airlift Wing Maintenance Squadron, and his wife, Leigh, have four children – Emma, 16; Claire, 15; Evelyn, 11; and Nora, 7. Devin and Leigh said children in military families must cope with difficulties and needs that may not be familiar to other children.  

“One of the biggest needs of military kids is to not feel so alone during a deployment,” Leigh said.  

Emma cited “not having my dad around when I need him” as one of the biggest challenges of being a military youth.  

Claire agreed, adding, “Not being able to see my dad as much while he is deployed and being concerned about how hard his job is” can be tough.  

More than 15,000 children in Minnesota have at least one parent serving in the National Guard or Reserve. Devin said knowing there are many other military youths in the community is a relief for Emma, Claire, and their siblings, along with the community support they receive.  

“We are happy with what the community has to offer us during deployments,” Devin said. “Like the YMCA’s Military Outreach program that provides free memberships for families of deployed service members.” 

Emma and Claire are involved in the military community. Both have participated in the annual Minnesota National Guard Child & Youth Program’s Teen Leadership Forum, which provides an opportunity for military youth in grades 6 through 12 to challenge, grow, and develop leadership skills by participating in a group project, volunteering for a community service project, listening to speakers and presenters, and connecting with peers. 

“It’s important to get involved to support their efforts in helping the youth and to show them that we appreciate them,” Claire said.  

“I like getting a better understanding of what it’s like being in the military and hearing from another source what it’s like at work every day and on deployments,” Emma said. 

To further strengthen community support for military youth, Emma suggested for schools to have a club for military youth so they can connect with each other. Claire added schools can also “Give more time to get assignments completed during deployments since there is less help at home.” 

Devin and Leigh have also participated as a couple and as a family in events that provide support to those in the military community.  

“We have attended several Strong Bonds events for a ‘date night’ class or for a family weekend retreat and we always come away with more tools to be better for each other,” Devin said. 

The Strong Bonds program, primarily offered by the Army and Air Force, aims to strengthen military families by providing relationship education, skills training, and support during deployments and relocations. It is a chaplain-led initiative that focuses on building resilient relationships and fostering a sense of community within military units. 

In addition, the Duryee family enjoys attending the Purple Up celebration for military youths and their families held each year at Mall of America in honor of Month of the Military Child. Purple is the official color of the military child. It is a combination of all the colors of the U.S. Armed Forces — Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard blues, Army green, and Marine Corps red. 

“We love seeing the looks on our kids’ faces, like they are the VIPs at the event,” Devin said. 

Hosted by the Minnesota National Guard Child & Youth Program, in partnership with Mall of America, the Purple Up festivities on April 25 features music, character appearances, giveaways, treats, rides at Nickelodeon Universe, and more.  

“The younger kids like to get their faces painted and then go to Build-a-Bear where they get to craft their own little buddy to bring to the park,” Leigh said. “Then, of course, it’s having access to all the rides.” 

Emma and Claire are glad there is a Month of the Military Child observance, and Emma said she would consider joining the military.  

“Because I want to get stronger both physically and mentally, so I can be a better registered nurse for my community,” she said. 

Both siblings are proud to be part of the military community, adding that being a military youth means “street credit.”  

Story By Cristina Oxtra 

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs 

The Arden Hills-based 34^th Infantry Division, also known as the Red Bulls, held its annual Operational Division Alignment Conference, or ODAC, on March 28, 2025, at the division headquarters in the General John W. Vessey Readiness Center at the Arden Hills Army Training Site. Last year’s conference did not take place as the division was deployed overseas.

Army Col. Ryan Kelly, the chief of staff for the 34^th Infantry Division, Minneota National Guard, said the event’s purpose is to create an opportunity for geographically disbursed elements under the 34th ID to meet and collaborate.

“A regular Army division is made up of multiple brigades: maneuver, aviation, division artillery, sustainment, engineers,” Kelly said. “When we think of a regular Army division, like 1^st Cavalry Division, it’s all going to be on Fort Cavasos in Texas. They will have the whole division there. In the National Guard, we have to spread that out over multiple states to have the same type of structured division. For the 34^th, for example, we have elements of the division spread out over 25 states. So what we do at the ODAC once a year is we bring in leaders from all of those organizations that are in other states to align the efforts of the division, knowing that we have to cross state boundaries to do that.”

Twelve aligned units from eight states, including Minnesota, Iowa, Idaho, South Dakota, North Carolina, Illinois, Missouri, and Virginia, were represented at the conference. Also present were Minnesota National Guard personnel currently attached to the U.S. Army Europe and Africa (USARUR-AF) in Germany, 1^st Army Division out of Camp Atterbury, Indiana, and Minnesota-based contractors with the Mission Command Training Support Program.  

A major consideration for aligning the efforts of each of these elements for a National Guard division is that the adjutant general of each state holds the ultimate authority on what training activities the elements in their state participate in, Kelly said. While the 34^th does not dictate how each state tasks their units, the conference can help to facilitate relationships and conversations aimed at coordinating partnerships between the elements in regard to pre-planned training opportunities.

“We can influence them (aligned elements) by being a responsible division headquarters and looking for opportunities to improve their training,” he said. “We look at things we can do as a division, and we look at the adjacent units in other states to find opportunities to help each other out.”

The conference helps leaders across the division examine the training plans each aligned element has for the foreseeable future and see where partnerships can be formed to fill in the gaps when the units need support.

“For example, the brigade is going to the National Training Center in 2026, and we are currently short a transportation company,” he said. “Ideally, the way it works is that someone in the room may say, ‘Hey, I have a transportation company that is looking for training in 2026, we would love to send them to the National Training Center.”

Another goal of the ODAC is to give the leaders of elements aligned within the division an opportunity to meet face-to-face and to create relationships, Kelly said.

“If we got the call today to mobilize an entire division to go deploy in a large-scale combat operation, we wouldn’t want to meet our subordinate or aligned units for the first time at a mobilization station in that type of emergency,” he said. “So this gives us the opportunity to begin understanding the capabilities across the division, building relationships, and becoming a slightly more proficient National Guard division through coming together once a year to discuss how we will conduct business.”

Kelly said the ODAC adds value for the aligned units in other states that do not regularly have the opportunity to work with a higher headquarters.

“We take it for granted here in Minnesota because we have division headquarters,” he said. “So, 1^st brigade, aviation brigade, the division artillery, they’re used to this, interacting with a division headquarters, which is what you would do if you went to war. Those other units in the other states do not have that. Those brigades generally work for an administrative Joint Force Headquarters. This provides them an opportunity to have a tactical headquarters to discuss their training and operations with that they would not otherwise have if we did not have the ODAC.”

Aside from facilitating business relationships, the ODAC allows leaders to put a face to the name and create personal relationships with those they may someday train or deploy with. Kelly said this year’s conference was a success.

“It was highly successful and we continue to have a better turnout every year,” he said. “We see an appetite and appreciation from the aligned units in conducting this every year, and I think it is fair to say that we are going to continue this to make National Guard divisions tactically and technically proficient and more synchronized in the training across the division.”

Story by Sgt. 1^st Class Sirrina Martinez

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

April 11, 2025 (CAMP RIPLEY, Minn.) – Teams from the Minnesota National Guard Joint Operations Center (JOC) conducted an exercise April 8-10, 2025 at the Camp Ripley Training Center as part of the U.S. Army NORTHCOM Joint Operations Center Training Course (JOC-TC).

The capstone scenario of the exercise challenged participants to demonstrate lessons learned from the previous day’s instruction and apply those principles to real-world situations in a demanding, complex and fast-paced environment.

“The goal and benefit of this exercise is to develop a better understanding throughout the JOC staff regarding their roles while networking with other partners,” said Army Col. Daniel O’Meara, Domestic Operations Chief with the Minnesota National Guard Joint Operations Center. “This allowed us to evaluate capabilities and limitations while operating in real-world domestic operations scenario.”

The JOC’s primary purpose is to provide continuous situational awareness to the office of the State Adjutant General during a domestic operation by monitoring, collecting and analyzing data to develop and update a common operational picture, allowing leaders to make informed decisions. The team in the JOC facilitates communication, planning, and coordination between different branches of the military, or often in the case of the National Guard, with civilian agencies and partners during joint operations within the state. During emergencies, the National Guard works in partnership with civilian authorities to aid with situations like physical security, logistical support and search and rescue if needed.

“There are different procedural steps and languages between the different agencies,” stated O’Meara. “The exercise enabled us to work through challenges and determine how we could operate together in various scenarios.”

The primary part of the exercise kicked off with a simulated shift change that involved the previous team monitoring a developing severe winter storm. This storm eventually produced multiple explained and unexplained power outages, road closures as well as hazards that would impact the civilian population. As the exercise continued, the scenario escalated with several counties declaring a state of emergency on top of a possible domestic terrorist threat.

“Our goal is always to come in and have the state pick up one or two critical things they didn’t have before, and we achieved that,” said Army Maj. Russel Bouillion, NORTHCOM Mobile Training Team Chief. “The biggest element is if the Minnesota National Guard found this beneficial and can use this training to improve upon their procedures. That is the success of our mission.”

The training, which was put on through the team from NORTHCOM, incorporated JOC specific operations and policies gathered from all 54 states and territories to educate using standard doctrine. The exercise tested specific processes found in an operations center responding to the scenario within Minnesota. For the Minnesota JOC, response to annual natural challenges such as winter weather or floods is a common practice, but the addition of secondary hazards tested communications, logistics and ready response across a wide area of the state.

“We follow doctrine, but every state faces unique challenges and adjusts necessary procedures in order to fit their needs,” said Bouillion.

The event culminated with a full briefing to the exercise commander, simulating an update brief to The Adjutant General or other state leaders. The collection of data and actions taken to best respond to the various situations was briefed by the section leaders and included information about personnel, intelligence, operations and logistics. The teams within the JOC demonstrated cross communication, gathered critical information, and presented what was achieved during the scenario with supporting data.

“NORTHCOM’s exercise was an excellent opportunity to help both seasoned and new personnel with the JOC understand our different roles and how to conduct domestic operations in the state of Minnesota,” concluded O’Meara.

Story by: Anthony Housey

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

“I’m really glad that I joined the Army,” said Spc. Uriel Rosario, a cavalry scout assigned to “Crazy” Troop, 1st Squadron, 94th Cavalry Regiment. “I enjoyed my time at [one-station unit training], even with it being 22 weeks; it was an experience that I will never forget.”

As one of the newest members of the Minnesota National Guard, Rosario represents the future of the force—a generation of service members prepared to meet new challenges with resilience and determination.

Rosario enlisted in the Minnesota National Guard in October of 2023. In January 2024, he boarded a plane for Georgia to begin training. He recalls the first time he slept under the stars at Fort Benning, then Fort Moore. Wrapped in a sleeping bag on the cold, hard ground, he woke up in the middle of the night, feeling the crisp Georgia air. Above him, the sky was scattered with stars.

“Even if it meant sleeping on the dirt,” said Rosario. “It was such a great feeling to be around my battle buddies and watch the sun come up.”

Of course, military training is not all peaceful moments under the stars.

“Being cold in the field, no showers for days,” he admits. “Low crawling through the mud and rocks and dirt, all the pushups, sit-ups, random counts in the middle of the night, it was all worth it; I look back and get a smile on my face.”

Rosario thrived on the challenge, taking every bit of instruction from his drill sergeants to heart.

Rosario grew up in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, and was inspired by his mother’s example of resilience and hard work. Sports were a major part of his life; he played baseball throughout high school and at Mayville State University in North Dakota. After completing his degree in 2020, Rosario moved to Duluth where the idea of enlisting kept resurfacing, first from recruiters during his school years and then from his new roommate.

“It was a weird time, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic,” added Rosario. “I was just going about life in a new city, and the Guard was a recurring theme; this time, it was because my roommate was in.”

By 2023, Rosario was looking for a new challenge. A visit to a local recruiter’s office turned into a decision within a week. The Minnesota National Guard made sense because it allowed him to serve while maintaining close relationships with friends and family at home. Choosing to become a cavalry scout job was natural.

“I knew absolutely nothing about what they did or how they did it,” said Rosario. “I just figured recon, quiet, stealthy— yeah, that’s all the convincing I needed.”

Rosario understood the significance of his decision the moment he stepped off the bus at Fort Moore and saw his first drill sergeant. Once he finished at reception and training really began, he was determined to learn as much as he could from the drill sergeants, acknowledging the potential dangers of combat roles.

“I didn’t go in trying to win awards or gain any recognition,” Rosario admitted. “I didn’t expect myself to get past the first hurdle, which was rifle qualification. I was just trying to do my best in everything.”

His best turned out to be elite. He had earned the Excellence in Armor award by the end of the training cycle. This award recognizes Soldiers who exceed standards and demonstrate superior leadership potential. Soldiers are recommended by their drill sergeant and must meet minimum qualifications: earning an Army Combat Fitness Test score above 480, with at least 80 in each event, qualifying on the M4 carbine as a sharpshooter, passing all skills tests and successfully finding four of five points during land navigation, among other things.

Rosario accomplished all that and more, scoring just shy of a perfect score on his final fitness test with 599 points and qualifying on his rifle, hitting 33 of the 40 available targets.

“My drill sergeants made it clear,” Rosario said. “What you learn here is what keeps you alive if any conflict were to happen.”

The most challenging part of training, Rosario said, was not the training itself but being away from loved ones. He attended church services and connected with other trainees to stay focused. Most importantly, it was his mindset that helped. He reminded himself daily that he was training for a reason.

Rosario hopes to attend officer candidate school and potentially commission as an officer in the future. For now, he wants to lean on noncommissioned officers in his company and continue to develop his skills. With his unit’s gunnery qualification approaching, Rosario remains focused on maintaining a path toward excellence.

“I made a choice that would challenge me in life, and it did just that,” added Rosario. “Now, I have many years to look forward to with my unit and to do my best with them.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh
Minnesota National Guard

The Month of the Military Child is observed in April to highlight the role of military children in the armed forces community and provide a way to recognize and show support for them. In Minnesota, there are more than 15,000 children who have at least one parent serving in the National Guard or Reserve.

Minnesota National Guard Army Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Kolle, who is assigned to the 175th Forward Support Company in Appleton, Minnesota, and his wife, Janelle, have two children, Orin, 12, and Cullen, 10. Janelle said military children need to have a connection and purpose to their role because they give up so much and a great deal is expected of them.

“These kids are serving alongside their family members too, with pride, but without choice they end up giving up more than anyone can fully define,” she said. “For us personally, it’s missed conversations, skipped traditions, a lack of spontaneous moments. It’s the emotional toll, consistently unknown schedules. It’s the feeling of being different, the expectation to be stronger, bigger, braver, smarter, and manage loneliness and disappointment.”

There is also the challenge of having a parent away from home for long periods of time.

“Only having Mom, I don’t get to do all the things. I have to help more with chores,” said Orin, who doesn’t plan to join the military in the future because he said “there is too much stress for families.”

His younger brother Cullen said he feels lonely when he’s apart from their dad and he fears for his dad’s and other soldiers’ safety. His mom helps him cope.

“The distance is hard, but we send packages to dad, they are fun to do, and Mom is the best at them,” Cullen said.

The demands on military children can take its toll, so Janelle provides her children with opportunities for creating moments of laughter, maximizing relationships, and finding joy in the little things. She also ensures her children feel they are part of their dad’s military career decision and offers them a mission of their own.

“One that meets their age and maturity level,” Janelle said. “When our boys feel a sense of understanding, it gives them a purpose to be proud of. Attending military youth focused events, camps, the military museums, the Minnesota 9/11 memorial, deployment dinners, unit family picnics, and holiday parties address some of their unique needs.”

“We did the Vikings Day event before dad left,” Orin said. “I saw there were lots of kids sending parents away too. It’s important to know.”

Cullen enjoyed a family day at his dad’s work.

 “It’s good to know what he does and think he is safe,” he said.

While the military community offers many activities in which military youth can participate, Janelle noted a need for more support in schools and communities, and she encourages parents to help address this.

“We recently ended a deployment for my husband and felt like I was on an island during this time. I shared with the schools about this time of deployment and transition in hopes of a partnership to build my children a village of trusted adults,” Janelle said. “I did the research and provided talking points to teachers. I gave the schools things to look for at this time. I did the research on how to best support the military youth in their school. I did the work because our military youth needs advocates for challenges around military service. I did what I could to educate and fill the gap.”

Janelle also reached out to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, which found military-connected volunteer mentors who could relate with her sons.

Orin and Cullen said schools and communities can do more to support military children and families.

“They could have a person to talk to and have it be a person who knows the military,” Orin said. “It could be a person to talk to the military kids about world stuff, bringing us together.”

Cullen also suggested recognizing military children.

 “And do things special for them, veterans program at school, show kindness,” he said.

Prior to moving to Benton County, the Kolles lived in Crow Wing County, where Janelle and a school district’s community education leader launched a military youth club for elementary and middle school military-connected students that met once a week. Businesses in the community sponsored the club’s activities and covered costs, such as supplies and a snack for each meeting. Any military connected child could participate for free.

“It is our responsibility to each other and the youth to fill in the gaps and address these identified areas of struggle,” Janelle said. “We need to build the tool kit to help ease the weight of military service for our own and educate along the way.”

To celebrate Month of the Military Child, the Kolles will attend the Minnesota National Guard Child & Youth Program’s annual Purple Up festivities at the Mall of America on April 25 for the first time. The annual Purple Up: Twin Cities event brings military youth and their families the opportunity to enjoy music, character appearances, giveaways, treats, rides at Nickelodeon Universe provided by Mall of America, and more. Purple is the official color of the military child. It is a combination of all the colors of the U.S. Armed Forces — Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard blues, Army green, and Marine Corps red.

“We are looking forward to seeing the joy in the kids and honoring their service and sacrifice,” Janelle said.

Despite the hardships, Orin and Cullen are happy to be part of a military family.

“I get to do fun things, and I get to tell others about my dad,” said Cullen, who might consider serving in the military one day. “I don’t want to cook, and they feed you. I want to do cool things and see new places.”

“I have strong relationships with my family. My mom and dad are strong,” Orin said. “I get to feel proud of my support to dad, and the military is proud of me.”

By Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

The Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon was recognized for 15 years of supporting Minnesota’s military community at a city council meeting at Hugo City Hall on March 17. 

Before the meeting, guests, including Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, the Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General, and Army Brig. Gen. Charles Kemper, 34th Infantry Division commander, were invited to a social hour where photos, messages of thanks, and awards that the Hugo BTYR has received through the years were on display. During the meeting, several Hugo BTYR volunteers were awarded certificates of appreciation.

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.”

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon builds and maintains a support network to meet the needs of Minnesota’s veterans, service members, and their families in all branches. Hugo joined the BTYR community network in 2009 becoming the second BTYR city after Farmington. Some of the Hugo BTYR’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 the 50 BTYR community networks statewide, Hugo’s efforts are coordinated entirely 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, Barabara 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 raffl,e 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!”

For more photos from the anniversary celebration, visit the BTYR page on Facebook.

Story By: Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

Photos By: Stefanie Hurt

Ten Minnesota National Guard security forces Airmen trained with Soldiers from the U.S. Army’s elite special forces, known as green berets, during exercise Sage Eagle held at both Fort Knox and Fort Campbell, Kentucky for two weeks in October 2024. The exercise helped prepare the Guard members as they and the rest of the military shift their focus from fighting insurgencies in the desert to the potential for large-scale combat operations.

“Compared to the climate and tactics of the previous 20 years in the [Middle East], the training at Sage Eagle broadens our perspective,” said Chief Master Sgt. Mike Nelson, the security forces senior enlisted leader at Minnesota’s 133rd Airlift Wing. “Sage Eagle gets them better prepared for the unfamiliar and uncomfortable possibilities in the Pacific.”

During the exercise the Minnesota National Guard security forces Airmen, known as defenders, from the Saint Paul-based 133^rd Airlift Wing and the Duluth-based 148^th Fighter Wing prepared for up to 72-hour-long operations in the field, performing tasks ranging from small unit tactics, direct action, special reconnaissance, and leader engagements.

“We executed night raids and pilot rescue missions. It was definitely a learning experience,” said Air Force Staff Sgt. Mackenzie Miller, a security forces squad leader at the 133rd Airlift Wing. “I learned how much I could push myself. I told myself that ‘I can do it, and I will do it.’”

She spoke of the value not only of the joint exercise, but of the training received from skilled combat Soldiers such as the green berets.

“We picked up a lot from them – little things like how they wore their gear to how they plan and map everything out,” said Miller. “They were on top of their game at every instant. They worked together so well as a team … it seemed so simple for them.”

During the exercise, the Airmen pushed through challenging terrain, at times were without running water and lived off the packaged meals known as MREs.

“This is what good, hard training looks like,” said Air Force Master Sgt. Matthew Reed, the National Guard’s security forces functional area manager. “Everyone wanted to keep going. They were dealing with harsh conditions and still wanted to get back into the exercise … Morale was better at the more austere location.”

“There’s definitely value in an exercise like this,” said Nelson. “This exercise helped us check off almost half of our annual training requirements.”

Now in its third iteration, the Sage Eagle exercise is only growing in prominence within the National Guard security forces community. Beginning in 2022 with 30 defenders, going to 40 in 2023, then jumping to 230 defenders from 39 different National Guard security forces squadrons in 2024.

“Word got out how amazing this is,” said Reed, explaining the dramatic spike in security forces participation. “Some security forces squadrons are using the Sage Eagle exercise as their entire annual training. I’ve been in the career field 14 years; I’ve never experienced anything like this.”

Story by Air Force Maj. Nathan Wallin
Minnesota National Guard

Photos by: U.S. Air National Guard Tech. Sgt. Sarah M. McClanahan

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

Growing up in a close-knit community in the Oti region of Ghana, Airman 1st Class Shine Kwabaffour was surrounded by strong bonds of friendship and family. It is where people shared meals, checked on each other daily, and offered help without hesitation.

“When you come to our community in Ghana, we are so much into each other on the street,” Kwabaffour said.

That sense of community has become a defining part of his identity. The transition was challenging when he moved to the United States in 2023. Unlike in Ghana, where interactions were warm and communal, he found that life in America was more individual. The sense of belonging he had always known felt distant.

“But when you come to the U.S., people are very individualistic,” said Kwabaffour. “You hardly hear somebody say hi to you here. It is hard to move away from your country and relocate to a different country.”

Everything changed when he joined the Minnesota National Guard. At his first drill weekend with the 210th Engineering Installation Squadron, Kwabaffour felt something familiar.

“When I went to the drill the first time, and our commander was giving his statement, he made it clear that in the Air Force or the military, we do not have colleagues,” he said. “Rather, we have brothers and sisters.”

After completing his degree in political studies from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kwabaffour moved to the U.S. with his wife and son. However, he struggled to find employment due to a lack of American work experience. Eventually, he discovered the Minnesota National Guard and recognized the benefits and structure it could provide.

“I was in the house one day thinking about where to start,” said Kwabaffour. “I took a look at the services, the police, the military, and I came across the Air Force. I looked at the benefits and realized it would be a good place to start, especially the National Guard because it comes with more flexibility. I can still be working at the same time and support my family.”

After discussing his ideas with his wife, Kwabaffour spoke with his pastor in Ghana for advice.

“At the end of the day, it’s meant to help,” added Kwabaffour.

The road to enlistment was not without obstacles. During the medical screening process, Kwabaffour learned he was colorblind. The unexpected news initially prevented him from serving in an engineering role. Determined not to let this setback impact him, he worked with his recruiter to get a waiver, requiring the support and approval of nine senior officers. The process took more than a month, but his persistence paid off when he was allowed to serve in his chosen career field.

“That was a difficult moment for me,” he admitted. “I told the recruiter, ‘I think I need to be with the 210th Engineering Support Squadron.’”

Beyond the technical skills he will gain, Kwabaffour hopes to make a meaningful impact on his family and the community.

“In civilian jobs, you are just striving to take care of your bills,” he said. “But when you come to the military, it gives you that sense of serving with purpose because you believe you are making the world or state a better place. Not for you alone, but for your children, for the people around you and future generations.”

Kwabaffour is eager to grow as a leader. He credits his background for giving him a solid foundation in government, decision-making, teamwork and critical thinking. He is committed to furthering his education in the military or civilian sector.

Since joining, he has experienced the tight-knit camaraderie that makes military service unique. He has found a new family in the Minnesota National Guard that supports, challenges and inspires him.

“Because of the challenge that I had enlisting,” said Kwabaffour. “A lot of [the leaders] knew. Everybody was calling me and asking, ‘How are you doing?’ It makes you feel at home. It’s really amazing.”

As he prepares for his upcoming training and the next chapter of his career, Kwabaffour represents the essence of the ‘Future Faces of the Force’ as a dedicated, resilient individual ready to serve, lead and inspire others. He also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and paying it forward.

“It’s never too late to serve,” he said. “I joined at 34 and I want others to know they can too.”

Kwabaffour believes service is more than just a job—it is a commitment to making a difference. Whether through his work in engineering or his aspirations for leadership, he is dedicated to building a future that reflects the values of integrity, excellence, and service before self.

“You serve to be served,” he said. “In life, you put in the work, the effort, and the dedication before you can reap the benefits. That’s how I see service—giving my best to make an impact.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh
Minnesota National Guard

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

Since the establishment of the Joint Prevention and Support Services Directorate nearly three years ago, the Minnesota National Guard continues to emphasize people as the force’s greatest strength and most valuable resource required to complete missions. The Resilience, Risk Reduction, and Suicide Prevention, or R3SP, program provides Guard members with critical resources that put an emphasis on the overall fitness and readiness of Minnesota National Guard members.

Over the last two years, the focus of the team has shifted to more targeted training directly with units. While all units are required to conduct the annual sudicide prevention training, the R3SP team saw a need to work with units on issues specific to them.

“By conducting a targeted brief, we can meet the unit where they are at,” said Adrianna McKay, the suicide prevention coordinator of the Minnesota National Guard.

Some of the issues specific to units are positive coping skills, ways to build resiliency, stress reduction techniques, basic budgeting, work life balance, and unit cohesion. McKay believes all the factors that can lead to a mental health crisis must be addressed to reduce the risk of suicide.

Ensuring Guard members have the skills needed to face life stressors is important too. The suicide prevention team works tirelessly on ensuring Soldiers and Airmen have resiliency skills to overcome any challenge they might face. Positive coping strategies and ways to reduce stress to lower the overall risk of suicide, according to McKay.

“Reducing the risk also includes substance abuse prevention training, as many people use alcohol or drugs to reduce their anxiety or stress,” said McKay. “Our programs work together to research new methods and identify the trends that we are seeing in our force.”

The R3SP teams collaborate by creating beneficial training and locating resources that are needed throughout the state. Their targeted briefs encompass resiliency, substance misuse and mental health. Team members cross train in all three programs, which provides cohesion.

McKay says the most important thing for Soldiers and Airmen to know is that they are not alone.

“Many people are facing challenges and stress these days, and we are here to help in any way we can. Reach out for help before a minor problem becomes a crisis,” said McKay. “Simply asking us opens many options.”

Story by Bob Brown
Minnesota National Guard

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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.

When 70 Airmen from 37 Air National Guard wings participated in a Cold Weather Operations Course at Camp Ripley, Minn., three aerospace medical technicians, or medics, and a physician assistant assigned to the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing were on hand, 24/7, to provide mobile medical support.

The two-week course featured a combination of classroom academics, outdoor skills practice, and an intense field training in Minnesota’s harsh winter conditions.

During the first week of classroom training, medical personnel provided students a medical-specific briefing to prepare students on Camp Ripley’s terrain, personal protective gear use, and the most common injuries seen in such a course. Medical staff and instructors also provided tips for avoiding cold injury, camp safety, and treating feet kindly.

The second week of training featured a six-day, five-night field training exercise where students rucked, worked, lived, and slept outdoors in 10-man arctic tents or shelters made with materials found in nature. Temperatures dipped below zero every night. Students also experienced high winds and snow during the field training.

Lt. Col. Casey Morris, a physician assistant assigned to the 148th Medical Group was part of the medical team who served the inaugural course in 2024, served as a planner and student in the 2025 course. “In an effort to reduce participant injury or failure, we worked closely with the security forces course planner to establish fitness standards for the students,” said Morris.

Master Sgt. Sean Prouty, an aerospace medical specialist assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, attended the inaugural course last year as a student. This year he returned to support and treat course participants. “Knowing what these students are going through helped us prepare for this year’s larger course,” said Prouty. “Last year medics worked out of a van. This year, we set up a mobile medical unit in a generator-powered, 16-foot enclosed trailer.”

In addition to staffing the mobile medical unit trailer, medics also followed students, on foot, carrying a 40-pound Warrior Aid and Litter Kit (WALK) during all ruck marches to ensure students could be treated immediately.

“Education is critical for training in extreme conditions,” said Master Sgt. Alex Caturia, an aerospace medical specialist assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing. “Nine cases of frostnip, a less severe precursor to frostbite, were identified which were treatable in the mobile medial unit. One case of frostbite was also identified; that student was not allowed to complete the course”

Students also endured blisters, some severe, and musculoskeletal problems commonly related to rucking long-distances in snowshoes, carrying packs, in snowshoes, while harnessed to a 300-pound Ahkio Sled.

The course was comprised of mostly security forces personnel, but also included a maintenance group commander, a cybercommunications specialists, a public affairs specialist, and medical personnel. 70 students started the course on Jan. 26, 2025 and 68 graduated on Feb.8, 2025.

The Department of Defense’s Arctic Strategy states the Joint Forces should be able to conduct mission-essential tasks at extremely cold temperatures. “If the mission requires us to fight in the Arctic; we must all be ready to brawl… and winning is non-negotiable,” said Col. Brian Cooper, 177th Maintenance Group Commander, who completed the course.

“Without question, CWOC is preparing us, in realistic conditions, to be ready for that combat environment and the Medics ensured we spent our time training in the field, as opposed to being sidelined by cold-weather injuries,” said Cooper.

The CWOC serves as a CONUS-based center of excellence for training airmen cold weather military skills. The course, planned and hosted by the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing, was designed to prepare service members for deployments to cold weather regions, and assist in planning missions with the goal of mitigating cold weather injuries.

Story by Audra Flanagan

148th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

CAMP RIPLEY, Minn. – Another year has passed, and like many others, Soldiers in the Minnesota National Guard are creating goals and New Year’s resolutions for 2025. The Holistic Health and Fitness, or H2F, program provided some advice on how to keep up with those New Year’s resolutions so that Soldiers can achieve their goals and improve their overall health through one of their monthly Microsoft Teams Live events.

“It’s important to be honest with yourself when creating goals,” said Army Chaplain Michael Rivera. “Creating changes may lead you to new paths, deeper connections, and transformative experiences. As Maya Angelou beautifully stated, nothing will work unless you do. The quote reminds us that while chance may offer us opportunities, our effort and willingness to engage, learn, adapt, and persist ultimately lead to meaningful change.”

Rivera said that creating specific, measurable, attainable, revisable, and timely goals is important and valuable in ensuring that change is achievable and that New Year’s resolutions don’t fizzle out. These goals are also known as SMART Goals, and one of the first steps to reaching them is to reword them to be more positive while also including the five domains of holistic health: physical, mental, nutrition, sleep, and spiritual.

 “When we’re only giving things up, it can make it feel like an exercise in deprivation and punishment, and instead, we should set our goals as something that we’re adding in,” said Amber Boyens, an H2F dietitian. “For example, in nutrition, we eventually run out of room for the negative language. Overall, we will have a more positive, encouraging, enjoyable experience as we set these goals if we shift away from them being small punishments.”

Brandon Saude, an H2F consultant, said that SMART goals can start small but should create a clear path to a desired outcome. A Soldier can go through the process of creating specific behavior-oriented outcomes which include the five domains of holistic health. This process can assist with any New Year’s resolution.

“The letter ‘R’ in SMART stands for revisable. Revisable goals allow you to adjust them along the way. Before we get into it, just think for a minute how many times have you set a goal for yourself and the main reason why you stopped pursuing that goal,” said Saude. “Revising your goals enables you to daily align what’s happening in real time to what your objectives are. Rather than pulling the plug altogether.”

During the event, Rivera shared the word of the day, ‘change’ with participants, to help summarize the support of a SMART goal and holistic health. By accepting change in a positive way and applying holistic health within a SMART goal, Soldiers can achieve their New Year’s resolutions and any other goals they have.

“Embracing change can mean opening yourself up to life’s possibilities and recognizing that every moment presents an opportunity for growth and discovery,” said Rivera. “It encourages us to take risks, step outside our comfort zones, and welcome the unexpected. Trusting that great things can emerge from taking a chance.”

Soldiers who are interested in learning more about how Holistic Health and Fitness helps Service Members reach their goals can contact DessaRae Smith or Corey Gregor with the H2F team through their emails, here: dessarae.n.smith.nfg@army.mil and corey.j.gregor.mil@army.mil.

Story by Staff Sgt. Jorden Newbanks

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs

Nearly 100 Minnesota National Guard medical professionals recently gathered at the 133rd Airlift Wing, Saint Paul, Minn., for the 2025 Joint Military Medical Summit, Feb. 15-16, 2025.

“The main objective of the JMMS is to strengthen relationships, enhance medical readiness and support the evolving missions of military medical operations,” said Army Lt. Col. Jolene Carlson, deputy commander of administration for the Minnesota Medical Detachment.

The biennial event provides a platform for Army and Air National Guard medical personnel to collaborate, share best practices and enhance readiness for future missions. Leaders also hope to expand joint medical training opportunities to strengthen partnerships between the components further.

“Another big part of this is to mingle and share ideas and experiences,” said the Minnesota National Guard’s State Air Surgeon, Col. David Nelson. “We have a lot of potential here to conduct real-world training if we mix Army and Air.”

This year’s summit marked a milestone as the first time the Air National Guard hosted and the first time Croatia, one of the Minnesota National Guard’s state partners, took part.

The two-day event featured presentations from subject matter experts on critical military medicine topics such as bioweapons, mental health and responding to unexpected situations. The JMMS enhanced technical proficiency and fostered collaboration between Army and Air medical professionals.

“It’s about developing better standards of care and working together to provide better treatment to our Soldiers and Airmen,” said Sgt. 1st Class Shane Kaplan, a treatment platoon sergeant assigned to Charlie Company, 134th Brigade Support Battalion. “Units should prioritize this [conference]. If they have any medical assets in their formations, get them here to see what it’s about from the lowest level to the highest level.”

As military medicine continues to evolve, events like the JMMS ensure that Minnesota National Guard medical personnel stay ahead of new training and innovation. The knowledge gained will be returned to units across the state, strengthening the Guard’s ability to respond to state and federal missions.

“Thank you all for the work that you do to take care of our Airmen and our Soldiers,” said the Minnesota National Guard’s State Army Surgeon Col. Conrad Ross. “It’s critically important. Without you, without your participation here, we would not be successful.”

Story by Staff Sgt. Mahsima Alkamooneh
Minnesota National Guard

70 Air National Guard airmen gathered at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minn., from Jan. 27 to Feb. 8, 2025, to train and conduct mission-essential tasks in extremely cold temperatures, during the Air National Guard’s Cold Weather Operations Course (CWOC).

The class comprised of mostly security forces personnel from 37 wings representing 27 states, also hosted a maintenance group commander, medical personnel, a cyber communications specialist, and a public affairs specialist. Two participants and one instructor from the 3rd Canadian Division’s Lake Superior Scottish Regiment, 38th Brigade Group also attended the course.

Class participants spent the first phase of the course in a classroom where they studied troop movements, risk management, cold weather injury care, and specialized equipment use.

The second phase sent students outdoors to practice over snow movement, Ahkio sled hauling techniques, land navigation, and thermal structure building.

The final phase was a six-day, five-night field training exercise where students traversed snow-covered terrain, reacted to leadership challenges, established a patrol base, constructed and slept in thermal or arctic shelters, and provided hypothermia care while enduring Minnesota’s winter weather.

The class was divided into six teams who navigated the field training as a group. The teams rucked long distances, while pulling Ahkio sleds filled with equipment, the first two days, then built self-sustaining camps, and slept in a10-man arctic tents with a small stove for heat.

Thermal shelters were constructed on the third and fourth nights using only supplies in an airmen’s pack or found in nature. While some teams created two or three-person “lean to” or A-frame style thermal structures, other teams created 10-person shelters to capitalize on body heat. Class attendees used fire as their only heat source while temperatures dipped below zero and wind gusts reached 30-miles per hour. It also snowed on the days they slept in thermal shelters.

Despite the challenging conditions, most of the class expressed building and sleeping in thermal shelters was their favorite part of the field training exercise. “Students enjoy thermal shelters because it tests their resilience, mental fortitude, and newly learned skills,” said course planner, 148th Security Forces Squadron Master Sgt. Heath Parks. “Sleeping in a thermal shelter in negative temperatures after days of exhausting ruck movements is not for the faint-hearted. Completing multiple nights in extreme field conditions demonstrates our airmen can do anything they put their minds to.”

The final day of the field training consisted of one last ruck to Lake Farrell. Upon arriving, teams set up and heated their 10-man artic tents then participated in a cold-water immersion supervised by the United States Coast Guard’s Training and Rescue Station from Duluth, Minn.

During the cold-water immersion, one individual from each team was transported after his or her jump, via Ahkio sled, to their arctic shelter to allow teams to conduct thermal rescue techniques and prevent hypothermia.

During the field training, airmen ate arctic versions of Meals Ready to Eat (MRE). Many of the students experienced bumps, bruises, and blisters commonly found when navigating rough terrain. Students were supported by three Aerospace Medical Services Technicians from the 148th Fighter Wing.

“Training courses like the CWOC enhance lethality and increase our airmen’s combat capabilities,” said Lt. Col. Ronald Rios, Chief, Air National Guard Security Forces Operations Branch, who participated as a student in the course. “The CWOC allows personnel to employ these skills in extreme weather conditions so they can secure and defend U.S. national interests and support our allies and partners anytime, anywhere, around the world.”

This was the second annual CWOC planned and hosted by the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing. Camp Ripley is a 53,000-acrew regional training center located near Little Falls, Minn., which features diverse landscapes from heavily forested areas to prairies to lakes and ponds.

Story by Audra Flanagan

148th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

For the first time since 1992, the Minnesota National Guard will have Air Force warrant officers back in the force. Warrant officers serve as technical experts, trainers, and leaders, primarily focusing on one specific, complex specialty. Minnesota’s 133rd Airlift Wing is one of only five National Guard air units selected to receive Air Force warrant officer positions.

“It’s remarkable that we’re bringing warrant officers back into the Air Force after such a huge gap,” said then Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall at the first warrant officer graduation ceremony on Friday, December 6, 2024. “It’s time to bring this back.”

Air Force Lt. Col. Brian Henke, commander of Minnesota’s 210th Engineering Installation Squadron of the 133rd Airlift Wing, the unit that will gain the Warrant Officer, shares Kendall’s enthusiasm.

“I’m excited that the Air Force has decided to provide these valuable experts an opportunity to continue their career through a path of technical leadership,” said Henke. “We intend to leverage this new capability in a way that best delivers the evolving cyberspace infrastructure needs of the Air Force.”

The 210th held selection boards in mid-December, with an announcement of the selection expected before the end of January.

According to the National Guard Bureau, the National Guard “will select an additional 71 warrant officers in [the fiscal year 2025], bringing the total to 83 Warrant Officers across 27 States, Territories, and 29 Wings.”

The four other wings selected to receive positions are Texas’ 136th Airlift Wing, Rhode Island’s 143rd Airlift Wing, North Carolina’s 145th Airlift Wing, and Delaware’s 166th Airlift Wing.

The chosen career fields: cyber and IT

“This came right from the Secretary of the Air Force; he wanted Cyber and IT,” said the Wisconsin National Guard’s Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Bradley Dahl, who serves as an Army Warrant Officer Senior Advisor at the Air Force Warrant Officer Training School. Dahl was previously the commander of a National Guard Warrant Officer Candidate School at Camp Atterbury, Indiana.

The first Air Force warrant officers will reside in one of two career fields, better known as AFSCs, an Air Force Specialty Code. The first AFSC, 17W, will be known as Warfighter Communications & IT Systems Operations. The second AFSC, 17Y, will be known as Cyber Effects & Warfare Operations.

The rationale for these two particular AFSCs was explained by Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin at the Air Force Association’s February 2024 Warfare Symposium.

“There’s something specific about this career field, why it’s attractive, and it’s a nice match for a warrant officer program,” said Allvin. “The pace of change of the cyber world, the coding world, the software world — it is so rapidly advancing, we need those Airmen to be on the cutting edge and stay on the cutting edge.”

Allvin added that retention is also a motivator, “Developing that warrant officer track for this narrow career field, we anticipate it will drive that talent in and help us to keep that talent.”

“When it comes to cyber and IT, there are more jobs on the civilian side,” said the Minnesota National Guard’s Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jeremiah Miller, an Army Warrant Officer Senior Advisor at the school. Miller added, “We’re losing top talent.”

The urgency to reestablish the warrant officer rank was evident. Within a year of announcing the decision to resurrect the Air Force warrant officer corps, Air Force leaders cut the ribbon and opened the doors at the newly established Warrant Officer Training School, known as WOTS. Two weeks later, the first warrant officer candidates began their training.

A path of technical leadership

The plan is for the new warrant officers to focus more on the technical aspects of their jobs apart from the enlisted ranks. Such a singular focus will allow the new warrant officers to maintain their specialized skills, knowledge, and expertise.

“The Air Force has decided to provide these valuable experts an opportunity to continue their career through a path of technical leadership,” said Henke. “This new warrant officer will be responsible for shaping and delivering a vison on the technology and training.”

The Air Force had warrant officers in its early days in the late 1940s and ’50s. However, within a decade, the Air Force phased out the warrant officer ranks in favor of the senior noncommissioned officer ranks, adopting the duties and responsibilities of the warrant officers.

Once an Airman attains a senior noncommissioned officer rank, “they’re more focused on the leadership side of things, and sometimes that can lead to a loss of some technical skills and proficiencies,” said Miller. “The Warrant Officers will be focused on one thing. It’s going to be great; everyone here [at the school] is excited about the concept – it will also be a culture change and maybe a little culture shock.”

At Minnesota’s 210th Engineering Installation Squadron

How the new Warrant Officers will operate and their specific duties are still being developed.

“We are still working with the broader engineering installation community to shape the role,” said Henke. Regardless, the new warrant officers are a new tool in the 210th’s arsenal, which he fully intends to employ.

“We intend to leverage this new capability in a way that best delivers the evolving cyberspace infrastructure needs of the Air Force,” Henke said.

Warrant Officer Training School

The first course began in early October 2024 and included 30 warrant officer candidates. The first new group graduated on December 7, 2024.

During 40 days of training and education, candidates learn how to serve Air Force Leaders as technical advisors.

Of the most recent class of 30 candidates, one-fifth were National Guard Airmen. Two were from the Air Force Reserves, and the remaining 22 Airmen were from the active-duty Air Force.

“The class ranged in rank from staff sergeant to chief master sergeant,” said Miller.

“The warrant officers we develop here will step right in and join their joint partners on combatant commanders’ teams and give us the tactical, operational, and strategic advantages that our force needs, anytime and anywhere,” said Air Force Lt. Gen. Andrea D. Tullos, commander and president of Air University, in a September article.

The following 30 Airmen selected as candidates will begin their training in January 2025.

The optimism is high for the new Air Force’s new technical leaders, the Warrant Officer.

“The Air Force’s newest warrant officers are ready to make an impact as technical leaders in the force,” said Air Force Maj. Nathaniel Roesler, the school’s commandant.

“The 210th is excited to be part of the revitalization on the leading edge of the warrant officer ranks,” said Henke. “We are excited to bring this new capability to the State of Minnesota, the 133rd Airlift Wing, and the 210th.”

By Maj. Nathan Wallin
Minnesota National Guard
Public Affairs

MEDIA RELEASE:

For Immediate Release January 23, 2025

SHAKOPEE, Minn. – F-16 fighter jets from the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing, Duluth, Minn., will perform a flyover at the “Hockey Day Minnesota” celebration, Saturday, Jan. 25 at 2:30 p.m., in Shakopee.

“As Minnesotans, Hockey Day holds special significance for the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing,” said Air Force Col. Nate Aysta, 148th Fighter Wing Commander. “For nearly 50 years, hockey has been an integral part of how we build teams and boost morale. From playing hockey during combat deployments to participating in inter-service tournaments, the sport is deeply woven into our tradition.”

The flyover is scheduled to consist of two F-16 fighter jets. The F-16, known as the Fighting Falcon, is a multirole fighter capable of speeds of 1,500 mph and a range of more than 2,000 miles. The 148th has performed flyovers at events statewide and nationwide. A military flyover is an up-close and powerful demonstration of our Air National Guard’s aerial strength and capabilities. Military flyovers bolster patriotism, support recruiting endeavors, and offer a deterrent to our nation’s enemies.

“Flying over Hockey Day Minnesota with our F-16s symbolizes our enduring commitment to both the state of Minnesota and the sport we hold dear,” said Aysta. “Conducting flyovers at an event like Hockey Day Minnesota invokes patriotism and unity while allowing our Airmen to display a glimpse of how we serve our state and nation.”

Editor’s Note: Media can direct further questions to Audra Flanagan, 148th Fighter Wing’s Chief of Public Affairs, at (218) 788-7365 or audra.flanagan.1@us.af.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.

About the Air National Guard: Established in 1947, the Air National Guard has a federal and state mission with an authorized strength of 106,700 Airmen. The ANG provides more than 90 percent of the air defense alert sites in the U.S. and delivers almost half of the Air Force’s airlift and aerial refueling capabilities, combat communications, and aeromedical evacuations.

About the 148th Fighter Wing: Established in 1948, the 148th Fighter Wing is home to more than 1,000 Airmen who serve in 67 diverse career fields. The 148th flies the F-16 Fighting Falcon and is one of two Air National Guard wings providing Suppression and Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD/DEAD).

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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
Dec. 17, 2024

Operation Merry Meals – Bringing the Holidays to Military Families OAK PARK HEIGHTS, Minn. – This Thursday, Minnesota National Guard staff and Beyond the Yellow Ribbon partners and volunteers are teaming up for Operation Merry Meals to provide holiday meals for Minnesota veterans, service members, and military families in need.

“The holiday season often underscores the love for family, duty, and gratitude that defines military life,” said Army Col. Eduardo Suarez, director of the Minnesota National Guard’s Culture, Resiliency, and Community Engagement. “Whether our service members are home or abroad, they can face many challenges that are often compounded during the holiday season. Operation Merry Meals is one way we, as Minnesotans, come together to support those in need. The simple act of providing a meal goes a long way in showing how we value the service and sacrifice of those that have served or are serving, and their families.”

This year, the annual effort involves gathering and packing an estimated 300 meal kits filled with groceries at Meals from the Heart, along with approximately 600 packs of assorted meats donated by Hunter’s Harvest. On Dec. 19, the meal kits and meats will be loaded into vehicles and delivered by volunteers to armories and air wings across the state. There, the food will be distributed to those who registered to receive them.

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon establishes and sustains community and corporate support networks that connect agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans and service members in all branches and their families. To learn more about BTYR, visit https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr.

– About the Minnesota National Guard –

Established in 1856 and headquartered in Saint Paul, the Minnesota National Guard has more than 13,000 Soldiers and Airmen who serve in 58 communities across the state. The Citizen[1]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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
Dec. 12, 2024

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota National Guard will celebrate the National Guard’s 388th birthday tomorrow with a cake cutting ceremony at the Cedar Street Armory in St. Paul.

“The opportunity to celebrate our organization’s heritage is one we proudly participate in,” said Army Col. Eduardo Suarez, Director of Culture, Resiliency & Community Engagement at Minnesota National Guard for the Minnesota National Guard. “The National Guard is a special organization in that we serve our state and country, either here at home or overseas.”

Suarez will host the birthday event and provide brief remarks. The event will include a cake cutting by a Soldier and an Airman.

The National Guard claims Dec. 13, 1636, as its official birthday. On that date, the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony passed a law establishing formal militia companies in the colony. These companies comprised adult males older than 16 and were expected to meet and train in military skills regularly.

The Minnesota National Guard was formed in 1856, and the oldest annual report on record is from 1892. That year’s document reported the Guard consisted of ten companies of infantry, two troops of cavalry, and two sections of artillery, with a total strength of 844 Soldiers.

“Today, your Minnesota National Guard is nearly 13,000 strong – men and women who have put on the uniform and sworn to defend our state and nation,” said Suarez. “Much has changed since the beginning of your Guard, but when we ask new enlistees why they joined, they frequently say, I want to serve my country.”

– About the Minnesota National Guard –

Established in 1856 and headquartered in Saint Paul, the Minnesota National Guard has more than 13,000 Soldiers and Airmen who serve in 58 communities across the state. The Citizen[1]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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
December 10, 2024

ARDEN HILLS, Minn. – This week, the first wave of more than 550 Citizen-Soldiers of the Minnesota National Guard’s 34th Infantry Division return to Minnesota following a ten-month deployment to the Middle East. “I am incredibly proud of our 34th Infantry Division ‘Red Bulls’ who successfully completed their Operation Spartan Shield and Inherent Resolve mission,” said Army Maj. Gen. Charles Kemper, 34th Infantry Division commander.

“I am likewise immensely grateful for our wonderfully supportive families, employers, and communities. Your Soldiers can only do what the country and our state need us to do because of your unwavering support.”

Units supporting the task force regularly conducted multilateral, military-to-military exercises with partner nation forces in the region. Training exercises varied from testing command-post capabilities to side-by-side maneuvers, developing a mutual understanding of how to conduct operations in a multinational environment. The division headquarters was also modernized with top-of-the line communications equipment during their mobilization, resulting in the unit being one of the most up-to-date units in the United States Army.

Spanning across 216 communities throughout Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Virginia, Colorado, California, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, and Texas, the Red Bull Soldiers are excited to return home before the Holidays.

“Soldiers of the 34th Infantry Division have made the Minnesota National Guard proud as they assisted allies and partners in building security throughout the Middle East,” said Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, the Minnesota National Guard’s adjutant general. “Red Bulls have defended our state and nation for more than 100 years, and these Soldiers continued to add to the division’s rich history. We are happy to see them return to spend the holiday season with their families.”

– About the Minnesota National Guard –

Established in 1856 and headquartered in Saint Paul, the Minnesota National Guard has more than 13,000 Soldiers and Airmen who serve in 58 communities across the state. The Citizen[1]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.

-30-

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
November 20, 2024

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The Minnesota National Guard and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office are scheduled to sign an agreement this Friday to mark their collaboration supporting the U.S. Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) program.

“The PaYS program is a path of support for our service members’ futures beyond the uniform,” said Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General. “Together, we can achieve far more than we ever could alone, and by working with our civilian partners, such as the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, we can ensure that our Soldiers have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.”

The PaYS Program is a strategic partnership between the U.S. Army and a cross section of private industry, academia and state and local public institutes. The U.S. Army PaYS Program guarantees Soldiers five job interviews and possible employment after their service in the Army. The PaYS Program provides America’s youth with the unique opportunity to simultaneously serve their country and prepare for their future.

The program prepares Soldiers for careers after military service by connecting them with employers who understand the skills, discipline, and work ethic that military service members bring to a business. PaYS is a long-term U.S. Army effort to assist Soldiers in forging professional relationships with businesses and encouraging business owners to look to the Army as a plentiful and reliable recruiting source. Since PaYS began in 2000, more than 1290 employers have partnered with the program.

“There is no greater calling than serving shoulder to shoulder with our esteemed brothers and sisters in the armed forces,” said Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt. “This collaboration will empower service members in their journey beyond military life. These brave men and women bring invaluable skills and by actively recruiting veterans, we not only honor their sacrifices, but our Office guarantees their well-being through programs like counseling services, peer support groups and wellness programs.”

The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office has been diligently seeking to recruit veterans, and this partnership serves as an additional resource in their recruitment efforts. HCSO already has a range of programs in place specifically designed to support veterans. It includes the SMART program, which helps veteran employees with their before, during, and after deployment needs. HCSO will also be offering an on-the job and apprenticeship training program, allowing veterans to learn a trade or skill through training on the job. By focusing on the unique needs of military members, HCSO ensures veterans receive the support they need to thrive in their careers.

–  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.

– 30 –

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
Nov. 15, 2024

EAGAN, Minn. – Minnesota National Guard teams with Beyond the Yellow Ribbon partners
and volunteers for Operation Turkey Drop – Thanksgiving meals for Minnesota military
veterans, service members, and families in need.

“This is a tremendous effort that can only be accomplished with the hard work, kindness,
volunteerism, and generosity of so many people across Minnesota, and we greatly appreciate it,” said Army. Col. Eduardo Suarez, Minnesota National Guard’s Director of Culture, Resiliency, and Community Engagement. “Thank you to all of them. We are so fortunate to live and serve in a state that cares for and supports our veterans, service members, and families. This is what community is all about.”

This involves moving an estimated 1,000 items, weighing approximately 10 tons. Five hundred meals kits (300 from Meals from the Heart and 200 from the Christian Academy) filled with groceries were packed at Meals from the Heart in Oak Park Heights. Minnesota Department of Transportation volunteers moved the meal kits to Thomson Reuters, where on Nov. 18, the kits, along with turkeys (200 donated by the Minnesota Wild and approximately 300 donated by Thomson Reuters), will be loaded onto vehicles and delivered by volunteers to armories and air wings across the state. There, the food will be distributed to those who registered to receive them. A similar effort will also be conducted for the Christmas holiday season.

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

– 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.

-30-

MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
November 12, 2024

CAMP RIPLEY, Minn. – Camp Ripley Training Center joins a cohort of more than 20 states in
providing full-time childcare facilities to employees working on the military base.

“National Guard members all stand to benefit from the childcare facilities located here on post,” said Public Affairs Officer Army 1st Lt. Colton Rossow. “Leaders at Camp Ripley are always looking for ways to support the individuals who work and train on the installation. This crucial support of families will contribute to mission readiness as we provide support to our greatest asset – our people.”

The installation is opening full-time childcare facilities for the first time in Camp Ripley’s more than 90-year history. Two facilities are already operating, and a third facility will open in early 2025. These three facilities provide accessible childcare for up to 36 children

“The childcare facilities on post are open to all Camp Ripley employees as well as Minnesota National Guard members in the local area,” said Army Command Sgt. Maj. Rian Hofstad, the Camp Ripley Garrison Command Sergeant Major.

On May 13, 2024, then Chief of the National Guard Bureau Army Gen. Daniel Hokanson signed the expansion of a pilot program to offer drill weekend childcare to Guard members. The program’s purpose enhances unit readiness, supports retention, alleviates financial burdens and harmonizes military commitments with parental responsibilities.

– 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.

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
Nov. 7, 2024

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The City of Minneapolis will be recognized as a Beyond the Yellow
Ribbon organization for its efforts in supporting the military community at a proclamation event
in Minneapolis today.

“The Minnesota National Guard values all of our corporate and community partnerships,
including those who are part of our Beyond the Yellow Ribbon network, like the City of
Minneapolis,” said Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant
General, who will speak at the event. “We appreciate the value they place and the respect they
have for the service and sacrifices of our veterans, service members, and their families and the
support they offer them in their workplaces and communities.”

While Farmington was the first Minnesota city to be recognized as part of the Beyond the
Yellow Ribbon community network in 2008, the City of Minneapolis is the first Minnesota city
to be recognized as an employer and part of the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon corporate network.

“Receiving the designation as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization is a tremendous honor,
and we are immensely proud to be the first city in Minnesota to achieve this milestone,” said
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “It is a privilege to support our service members, veterans, and
their families who have made such significant sacrifices for our nation. The City of Minneapolis
is dedicated to serving those who have served us, and we look forward to deepening our
partnership with the Minnesota National Guard.”

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

– 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.

MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
October 3rd, 2024

SAINT PAUL, Minn. – This weekend, more than 700 family members and friends of the currently
deployed Red Bull Soldiers of the Minnesota National Guard’s 34th Infantry Division will gather
to enjoy a steak meal and a live virtual connection with their loved ones overseas thanks to the
Saint Paul-based civic organization Serving Our Troops.

“I am excited and appreciate the opportunity to attend the Serving Our Troops event with my
children and great friends this weekend,” said Tonia Hackett, wife of Army Lt. Col. Jay Hackett,
the commander of the 34th Infantry Division Headquarters Battalion. “It is a wonderful way for
families back home to connect with their deployed Soldier over a delicious meal.”

In real-time, friends and family members in Saint Paul can share the experience with their service
members in the Middle East as the event program at the Legendary Roy Wilkins Auditorium is
broadcast live. They can also connect directly via ten more private individual live video stations.
More than 550 members of the Minnesota National Guard’s 34th Red Bull Infantry Division
headquarters are currently deployed to the Middle East, leading Operation Spartan Shield,
maintaining a U.S. military posture to strengthen defense relationships and build partner capacity
in the area.

“I want to thank Serving Our Troops as their work brings a piece of home to our deployed
Soldiers, reminding them that they are never far from the hearts of those they protect,” said
Minnesota’s Adjutant General, Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke. “It’s organizations like these that
truly make a difference in the lives of our troops, providing comfort and support when they need it
most.”

While in previous years, the organization was able to ship and prepare meals for troops overseas,
this event will be slightly different, with the meal for the deployed Minnesotans being delayed.

“The recent events in the theater of operations necessitate that we curtail the long-awaited Serving
Our Troops event,” said Army Lt. Col. Jay Hackett, the commander of the 34th Infantry Division
Headquarters Battalion “Unfortunately, holding the event as planned is incompatible with force
protection and continuing the mission in this environment. The hard work and dedication of the
Serving Our Troops organization is not lost on us here. We look forward to and highly encourage
the participation of our community and family members in the excellent event still scheduled in
Saint Paul. We look forward to seeing you all enjoy the event, which we see as ‘Serving Our
Troops by serving our community and families.'”

The currently deployed Red Bull Soldiers will be able to share the special Serving Our Troops
steak dinners with their fellow servicemembers overseas later this year.

Serving Our Troops was formed by a group of community and business leaders who shared a
common interest in supporting those who put themselves in harm’s way so that we may enjoy all
that is great about our country. Since 2004, Serving Our Troops has served over 110,000 steak
dinners around the world. Their mission has been to send a special message to Minnesota service
members and their families in the form of a 12-ounce steak from home.

Photos and broadcast-quality b-roll of past Serving Our Troops events are available online here:
https://www.dvidshub.net/search/?q=Serving+our+Troops&filter%5Bunit%5D=MNNG&view=gri
d&sort=publishdate

– 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 3, 2024

Arden Hills, Minnesota – Army Col. Charles “Chip” Rankin will relinquish command of
the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, to Army Col. Michael
Klaphake in a ceremony on Friday at the General Vessey Readiness Center in Arden
Hills, Minnesota.

“As I assume command of this storied brigade, my top priority is to ensure our soldiers
are ready to respond to any requirement thrown at us from the federal to the state
level,” said Klaphake. “This means doing the common things uncommonly well, from
maintaining our equipment to conducting rigorous training. It also means prioritizing the
wellbeing of our soldiers and their families. It is my goal to provide predictability for our
Soldiers and their families, and through that we reduce some of the stresses our
Soldiers face when they balance serving in our military, working civilian jobs, and being
present for their families.”

Klaphake comes to the 1st Armored Brigade Combat team following assignment as the
Rear Detachment Chief of Staff of the 34th “Red Bull” Infantry Division. He was
previously the Commander of the 1st Squadron, 94th Calvary Regiment based in
Duluth, Minnesota. Klaphake was commissioned as an Air Defense Artillery officer in
the Minnesota National Guard in 2003. He deployed to Iraq in 2004-2006 and Kuwait in
2011-2012. In his civilian career, he is the Vice President of Technology Solutions at BI
Worldwide in Edina, MN, where he manages IT application security, software
development, and post-implementation support operations.

After successfully completing his tour as commander from 2021 to 2024, outgoing
commander Col. Charles Rankin has assumed duties as the Rear Detachment Chief of
Staff for the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division.

“Reintegrating and refitting nearly 2,000 soldiers returning from overseas deployments
while simultaneously modernizing the entire Armored Brigade Combat Team to prepare
for future demands has been a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Rankin. “I consider
myself extremely blessed to serve as the leader to the best Combat Brigade in the US
Army.”

The 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 34th Infantry Division consists of eight
major subordinate commands. More than 4,700 Soldiers make up the brigade’s
combined arms, armor, calvary, infantry, artillery, engineer, and brigade support
battalions, constituting more than half of the Minnesota Army National Guard’s total
force structure.

– 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 2, 2024

ST. PAUL, Minnesota – The Minnesota National Guard’s St. Cloud-based C Company,
2-211 General Support Aviation Battalion is sending two CH-47 “Chinook” cargo
helicopters to transport commodities and personnel throughout disaster areas. Eleven
soldiers will be activated in support of this mission.

Governor Tim Walz authorized the support following a request from North Carolina
officials through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). The
compact allows a state affected by catastrophe to ask for resources based on their
needs. While any state can respond, there is no obligation to participate.

“The Minnesota National Guard is ready to assist the state of North Carolina and help
support people and communities impacted by Hurricane Helene,” said Maj. Gen. Shawn
Manke, Minnesota National Guard Adjutant General. “We take pride in being able to
answer the call when another state requests support.”

The soldiers are expected to arrive Friday and provide support for at least one week.
The request for support could be extended depending on the need for support of
ongoing aid efforts in the storm’s aftermath.

– 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.

MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
September 30, 2024

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend, the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing will host an event to dedicate a newly finished Memorial Wall to the families of 21 Bulldogs who were lost while serving their state and nation.

“The names of 21 148th Fighter Wing members are memorialized forever on this granite wall,” said 148th Fighter Wing Commander, Col. Nate Aysta. “This is dedicated to the families, the living legacy of those service members whose lives were cut short in the service to our state and nation.”

The newly completed Memorial Wall stands in a position of honor, facing the flightline and American Flag at the Wing’s base operations building.

The 148th will host a private ceremony for families on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Memorial Wall.

Editor’s Note: Members of the media are invited to the 148th Fighter Wing, on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 1:30pm, to see the wall and interview unit leaders and members who helped create the project, including family members of those etched on the wall. The 148th is a secure military installation. B-roll from the private ceremony will be available by 4:00pm on Sunday, October 5, 2024, at www.dvidshub.net/148fw.

– 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.

MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
September 27, 2024

LITTLE FALLS, Minn. – This Sunday, the Minnesota National Guard will induct thirteen retired members into this year’s Cout of Honor at Camp Ripley near Little Falls, Minnesota.

Over 530 inductees are presently memorialized and honored for their heroism, outstanding professionalism, and service to both the military and their community. Each inductee served as a
member of the Minnesota Army National Guard or a civilian employee of the Minnesota Department of Military Affairs.

“Significant pride is inspired by the Court of Honor each year,” said Memorialization Board President Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Neal Loidolt. “Our inductee’s honorable contributions are the strength of the Minnesota National Guard. It is an honor to instill their legacy for future generations.”

This year’s inductees include:
Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Ross S. Fortier of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Kevin S. Gerdes of Mahtomedi, Minnesota
Col. (Ret.) Larry Herke of Sauk Centre, Minnesota
Col. (Ret.) William A. Hose of Alamo, Texas
Col. (Ret.) Chad M. Sackett of Little Falls, Minnesota
Col. (Ret.) Mark G. Wiens of Lake Elmo, Minnesota
Chief Warrant Officer 5 (Ret.) of Elk Park, North Carolina
Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Erik R. Arne of new London, Minnesota
Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Robert L. Klinkner of North Mankato, Minnesota
Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) John M. Lepowsky of Sauk Centre, Minnesota
Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Michael P. Worden of Brainerd, Minnesota
1st Sgt. (Ret.) Virgil D. Cochran of Hastings, Minnesota
DMA Civilian (Ret.) Mrs. Mari E Erickson of Valley Springs, South Dakota

Memorialization began in 1933 as stated in General Order #5, dated May 26, 1933, “As a perpetual monument in memory of a grateful State and Nation, terrain features on the Camp Ripley Military Reservation, Little Falls, MN, are at this moment named in honor of Minnesota citizens, now deceased, = who served honorably in our armed forces during time of war.” A total of 159 individuals were honored at that time.

In 2009, the Memorialization Board added a “Special Recognition” segment to their annual Court of Honor Induction Ceremony to recognize past Service Members for their sacrifices, bravery, and historical significance to our organization with a Special Recognition.

– 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.

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
Sept. 24, 2024

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Children’s Minnesota will be recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization for its efforts in supporting the military community at a proclamation event in St. Paul this Thursday.

“The commitment of Children’s Minnesota to our military community is invaluable and we appreciate all it does to meet the unique and ever-expanding needs of our veterans, service members, and families,” said Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General, who will speak at the event. “Thank you to Children’s Minnesota for creating a workplace environment and culture that support, recognize, and value military service.”

Children’s Minnesota is honored to be named a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization.

“At Children’s Minnesota, we are profoundly committed to supporting the brave individuals in uniform, as well as their families,” said Dr. Emily Chapman, Chief Medical Officer and executive sponsor of the Military and Veterans employee resource group at Children’s Minnesota. “We acknowledge the unique challenges that military service members, veterans and their families face, and we are dedicated to providing the resources and support they need to thrive. It is an immense privilege to stand alongside them and express our unwavering gratitude for their sacrifices.”

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon’s mission is to establish and sustain a comprehensive community and corporate support network that connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans, service members, and families in all military branches. There are currently 84 BTYR companies and organizations and 53 BTYR community networks.

– 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.

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
September 6, 2024

BROOKLYN PARK, Minn. – Tomorrow, the 1904 Acquisition Team will hold a departure ceremony for Soldiers deploying to the Middle East.

“The 1904 Acquisition team is a critical piece of the Minnesota National Guard, and their unique expertise is a force multiplier that enables our warfighters to be successful,” said Army Col. Jesse Johnson, the 347 Regional Support Group Commander. “Acquiring what we need, and when we need it, and getting it to our service members in any environment is a heavy burden that I am confident this team can handle.”

 The 1904 Acquisition Team’s mission is to support, plan, and coordinate all contracting functions at the brigade, division, corps, and theatre-wide efforts to supervise, administer, and support contingency contracting operations while supporting the United States Property and Fiscal Office. Acquisition teams prepare, plan, develop, and implement procurement procedures both internationally and with domestic operations.

The team provides management, technical expertise, and experience to ensure that the military can receive and procure essential equipment supplies. They are also responsible for evaluating contract proposals, awards, and administering contracts while analyzing the costs and purchase requests. This team is made up of approximately half a dozen Soldiers.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the departure ceremony on September 8, at 10 a.m. at the Brooklyn Park Community Center, 5600 85th Ave. N Brooklyn Park, Minn., 55443. Media can RSVP to Army Capt. Will Hermanson at 507-616-6536 or william.t.hermanson.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.

MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
September 5, 2024

LITTLE FALLS, Minn. – Friday, the Minnesota National Guard’s 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment based in Brainerd, Minnesota, will receive the U.S. military’s highest unit award, the Presidential Unit Citation, for their efforts in the Kabul evacuation along with two other prestigious awards.

“These awards are not just symbols of what the Soldiers have achieved—they are reminders of the lives they saved, the people they protected, and the difference they made in the world,” said Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General.

The unit deployed in March 2021 and returned in January 2022. During their deployment, they supported Operations Freedoms Sentinel and Spartan Shield. Task Force 1-194 was essential in supporting our Allies and the citizens of Afghanistan in Kabul, Afghanistan. Working alongside the Air Force and Marines, they ensured a safe and successful evacuation of vulnerable Afghan citizens and Allied personnel.

The unit will receive three awards: the Presidential Unit Citation (PUC) award, the Meritorious Unit Commendation (MUC) award, and Superior Unit Award (SUA). The PUC is awarded to units for extraordinary heroism in action against an enemy. The unit must display such gallantry, determination, and esprit de corps in accomplishing its mission under extremely difficult and hazardous condition to set it apart and above other units. The last time a PUC was issued to this Battalion was during WWII. The MUC is for exceptionally meritorious conduct in performance of outstanding achievement. The SUA is awarded to Army units that display outstanding meritorious performance of a difficult and challenging mission under extraordinary circumstances.

The ceremony will begin at 5 p.m. with a dinner to follow provided by the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.
“The prestige of these awards are significant milestones in the lineage and rich history of this battalion, but awards come with a cost and a sacrifice that only the Soldiers and families of the deployed truly understand,” said Army Lt. Col. John Hobot, 1-194 Armor Battalion Commander. “I am honored to participate in this recognition to celebrate the accomplishments of the Soldiers who made up Task Force Bastard.”

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the event on Sept. 6 at 5 p.m., located at the Area 8 Parade Field at Camp Ripley Training Center, 15000 Highway 115, Little Falls, Minn. 56345. Media can RSVP to Maj. Jodine Eells at 320-4230-5571 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.

UPDATED MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate
Release Aug. 29, 2024

MINNETONKA, Minn. – Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan will recognize Medica as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company for its efforts in supporting the military community at a proclamation event in Minnetonka, Minn., on Thursday, August 29.

The lieutenant governor will join Army Maj. Gen. Johanna Clyborne, Minnesota National Guard Assistant Adjutant General, and other dignitaries for the event at Medica’s campus to recognize this significant achievement.

“The Minnesota National Guard and Beyond the Yellow Ribbon value all our partnerships across the state in the places where we live, work, and serve,” said Army Maj. Gen. Johanna Clyborne, Minnesota National Guard Assistant Adjutant General and the military representative who will speak at the event.

“We can focus on our mission, find opportunities, and care for our families, thanks to the commitment and steadfast support of many Minnesota communities, organizations and companies, like Medica.”
“We are extremely proud to earn the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon designation,” said Dan Abdul, Medica Chief Information Officer and executive sponsor of Medica Salutes, an employee resource group within Medica for military veterans and advocates.

“Medica is committed to supporting our employees’ military service whether they’re active duty, a veteran, or a family member. This provides an opportunity to create broader support for our communities as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization.”

The mission of Beyond the Yellow Ribbon is to establish and sustain a comprehensive community and corporate support network that connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans, service members, and families in all military branches.
Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to the proclamation event Thursday, Aug. 29, at 9:30 a.m. at Medica, located at 401 Carlson Parkway, Minnetonka, Minn. 55305. The ceremony starts at 10 a.m. Media can RSVP to Cristina Oxtra at (763) 349-2047 or e-mail cristina.f.oxtra.nfg@army.mil. Visit https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr to learn more about Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.

– 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.

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
July 10, 2024

DULUTH, Minn. – Airmen and F-16 Fighting Falcons from the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing, Duluth, Minn., arrived for temporary deployment to Kadena Air Base, Japan. The Fighting Falcons will join deployed F-22 Raptors to ensure a steady-state fighter presences in the region during the phased departure of Kadena’s fleet of F-15C Eagles.

The U.S. routinely evaluates readiness and repositions forces as needed to ensure we are presenting the appropriate capabilities necessary to meet obligations in the regions. This deployment demonstrates the continued U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

“This deployment is part of the 148th Fighter Wing’s regularly scheduled deployment cycle,” said 148th Fighter Wing commander, Col. Nate Aysta. “It is our second deployment to the Indo Pacific Command in recent years, as the 148th deployed to Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea in 2016.”

The United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) area of responsibility (AOR) encompasses nearly half the earth’s surface, stretching from the waters off the west coast of the U.S. to the western border of India, and from Antarctica to the North Pole.

Kadena Air Base is the largest U.S. installation in the region. Kadena is home to the 18th Wing who operates a fleet of combat-ready aircraft to perform air superiority, aerial refueling, airborne warning and control, and combat search and rescue functions.

The 148th Fighter Wing deployed approximately 30% of assigned personnel, or 300 Airmen, for roughly three months.

Editor’s Note: Media can direct further questions to Audra Flanagan, 148th Fighter Wing’s Chief of Public Affairs, at (218) 788-7365 or audra.flanagan.1@us.af.mil.

– About the 148th Fighter Wing –
Established in 1948, the 148th Fighter Wing is home to more than 1,000 Airmen who serve in 67 diverse career fields. The 148th flies the F-16 Fighting Falcon and is one of two Air National Guard wings trained to provide Suppression and Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD/DEAD)

– 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.

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
June 25, 2024

VIRGINIA, Minn. – U. S. Steel will be recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company for its efforts in supporting the military community at a proclamation event in Virginia, Minn., on Thursday.

“We value our partnerships with the many companies, organizations, and communities across Minnesota that are part of our Beyond the Yellow Ribbon network, and we are pleased to welcome U. S. Steel as our newest partner to this network,” said Air Force Col. Nathan Aysta, 148th Fighter Wing commander and the Minnesota National Guard representative who will speak at the event. “The company’s commitment to actively supporting our military veterans, service members, and families is important and deeply appreciated by all of us.”

“Earning the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon distinction is a great honor for U. S. Steel and solidifies our commitment to active duty and veteran members of the armed forces who work in our mines and mills,” said Travis Kolari, Head of Operations, Minnesota Ore Operations Processing for U. S. Steel. “These individuals and their families make tremendous sacrifices for our freedom, and we strive to create a workplace where the men and women who have served our nation can have the support and opportunities they deserve.”

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon’s mission is to establish and sustain a comprehensive community and corporate support network that connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans, service members, and families in all military branches.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to the proclamation event Thursday, June 27, at 11 a.m. at the Iron Trail Motors Event Center, 919 6th Street South, Virginia, Minn. 55792. The ceremony starts at 11:30 a.m. Media can RSVP to Cristina Oxtra at (763) 349-2047 or cristina.f.oxtra.nfg@army.mil. Visit MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr for more information about Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.

– 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.

MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
June 14, 2024

LITTLE FALLS, Minn. – This week Camp Ripley Training Center is utilizing a new web-based application system to facilitate season-long archery white-tailed deer hunting for the public.

“Camp Ripley has hosted one of the largest public archery hunts for over 60 years,” said Army Col. Troy Fink, the Garrison Commander of Camp Ripley Training Center for the Minnesota National Guard. “We wanted to find an option to continue our partnership with our hunters and neighbors who cherish the outdoors while having minimal interference to our training priority.”

ISportsman is a web-based, interactive system that allows users to view and apply for hunting opportunities on Camp Ripley and various military installations throughout the nation. All information including contact information, history, rules, regulations, open areas to hunt, alerts, and the ability to check-in and out will be available at the iSportsman site: https://ripley.isportsman.net/default.aspx.

Hunters will purchase their permits for Camp Ripley through the iSportsman site and not through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR). All interested hunters will need to sign up and register on the iSportsman website, via phone or computer. Once registered, hunters will be able to purchase permits to access Camp Ripley, check-in and out daily from the hunting area, and view the areas that are open to hunting. Hunters will still need to purchase their archery license and bonus tags through the MNDNR either at an authorized Electronic License System (ELS) vendor or through the website at https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/online-sales.html.

“The iSportsman enables us to continue supporting our community and be a good neighbor and continue to focus on our primary mission of being a National Guard training center,” said Fink. “We are able to offer more access for hunting to the public, and you will have options on when and how often you want to hunt with your family and friends.”

Editor’s Note: Please direct any questions to Army Capt. William Hermanson the Camp Ripley Public Affairs Officer at 651-435-3180 or william.t.hermanson.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.

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
June 11, 2024

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska— RED FLAG-Alaska is a Pacific Air Force-sponsored exercise from May 30 through June 14, designed to provide realistic training in a simulated combat environment enabling joint combined forces to exchange tactics, techniques, and procedures while improving interoperability with fellow allied forces.

“Participating in RED FLAG-Alaska 24-2 is a fantastic way for our people to be exposed to and solve strategic, tactical, and logistical problems while overcoming realistic scenarios,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. John Borsenberger, team leader, 133rd Airlift Wing. “It has been nearly 10 years since the 133rd Airlift Wing, Minnesota National Guard, has participated in this premier exercise.”

Approximately 3,100 service members are expected to fly, maintain, and support more than 100 aircraft from four nations scheduled to participate in Red Flag-Alaska 24-2, including Airmen from the Minnesota National Guard’s 133rd Airlift Wing. Red Flag-Alaska training spans from individual skills to complex, large-scale joint engagements. The exercises can be adapted to integrate various forces into a realistic threat environment using the more than 77,000 square miles of airspace in the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, which is the largest combat training range in the world.

“During our time here, our C-130 Hercules and crews will carry out the following types of missions: airdrops of cargo, personnel airdrops, and landing on dirt runways in remote Alaska,” Borsenberger shared. “Everyone from the 133rd is looking forward to participating in this exercise and representing the C-130 Hercules community, the U.S. Air Force, and the state of Minnesota.”

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to schedule phone or Zoom interviews with Airmen from the 133rd Airlift Wing Tuesday through Thursday this week. To set up an interview email jber.pa.mediaops@us.af.mil or call 907-551-8995.

– 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.

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
June 7, 2024

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. – Replenex, a distributor of cutting tools, abrasives, adhesives, safety products, and industrial supplies, will be recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company for its efforts in supporting the military community at a proclamation event in Eden Prairie on Tuesday.

“We are pleased to welcome Replenex, a company founded by a veteran, to our BTYR network,” said Army Lt. Col. Joseph Sanganoo, Minnesota National Guard’s Family Programs Officer and the representative who will speak at the event. “We look forward to growing our partnership today and well into the future.”

Army Col. Sidney R. Cohen, the grandfather of Matt Cohen, Replenex president and CEO, established the company 78 years ago. The Army recognized Col. Cohen’s veteran status, which enabled him to make successful bids to purchase its surplus industrial supplies.

“Without that opportunity, who knows where our family and this business would be today,” Matt Cohen said. “Being a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company not only honors my grandfather’s military service, but also recognizes the support Replenex provides to military families, veterans, and the community. This recognition is a daily reminder to honor and support our military community.”

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon’s mission is to establish and sustain a comprehensive community and corporate support network that connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans, service members, and families in all military branches.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to the proclamation event Tuesday, June 11, at 2 p.m. at Replenex, located at 9815 West 74th Street, Eden Prairie, Minn. 55344. The ceremony starts at 2:30 p.m. Media can RSVP to Cristina Oxtra at (763) 349-2047 or cristina.f.oxtra.nfg@army.mil. Visit MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr to learn more about BTYR.

– 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.

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
May 22, 2024

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing will deploy personnel and aircraft overseas this summer as part of a regularly scheduled deployment. “The Air National Guard is a combat-ready reserve of the Air Force, providing mission-ready Airmen to safeguard the homeland and execute global operations,” said 148th Fighter Wing commander, Col. Nate Aysta.

“The Bulldogs of the 148th Fighter Wing are ready to provide a trained and equipped aviation package of Airmen and aircraft to meet the needs of our deployed location.”

The deployment location is not releasable at this time. The 148th has previously deployed overseas in support of the below missions:

• 2005 – Joint Base Balad, Iraq – Operation IRAQI FREEDOM
• 2007 – Joint Base Balad, Iraq – Operation IRAQI FREEDOM
• 2009 – Joint Base Balad, Iraq – Operation IRAQI FREEDOM
• 2012 – Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan – Operation ENDURING FREEDOM
• 2016 – Osan Air Base, South Korea – Theater Security Package
• 2018 – Ahmed al-Jaber Air Base, Kuwait – Operation INHERENT RESOLVE
• 2022 – Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabi – Operations NEW DAWN and INHERENT RESOLVE

Editor’s Note: Members of the media are invited to attend a press conference hosted by the 148th Fighter Wing Commander, Col. Nate Aysta, regarding the upcoming deployment at the 148th Fighter Wing on Weds, May 22, 2024, at the 148th Fighter Wing, 4687 Phantom Drive, Duluth, Minn. at 12:45 p.m. Media should RSVP to Audra Flanagan at (218) 788-7365 or audra.flanagan.1@us.af.mil by 12 p.m. for security purposes.

– About the 148th Fighter Wing –

Established in 1948, the 148th Fighter Wing is home to more than 1,000 Airmen who serve in 67 diverse career fields. The 148th flies the F-16 Fighting Falcon and is one of two Air National Guard wings trained to provide Suppression and Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD/DEAD). The 148th provides mission-ready Airmen and equipment to meet state and federal taskings while promoting critical partnership.

– 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.

MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
May 14, 2024

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Fairview Health Services will be recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization for its efforts in supporting the military community at a proclamation event in St. Paul this Thursday.

“We are pleased to welcome Fairview Health Services to our Beyond the Yellow Ribbon network of partners,” said Army Col. Scott Rohweder, Minnesota National Guard Joint Chief of Staff and the representative who will speak at the event. “We appreciate the invaluable assistance, opportunities, care, and support it provides to our Minnesota veterans, service members, and families within the organization and beyond.”

Fairview Health Services is honored to receive this recognition. “Becoming a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization is the embodiment of Fairview’s commitment to supporting the military community; whether they are our employees and their families, patients, or part of the communities we serve,” said James Hereford, president and CEO of Fairview Health Services.

“We recognize the sacrifices service members and their families have made and the unique challenges they face. As one of the largest employers in the state of Minnesota, we take great pride in creating a space that honors and supports those who have selflessly served our nation.”

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon’s mission is to establish and sustain a comprehensive community and corporate support network that connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans, service members, and families in all military branches. There are more than 80 active BTYR companies and organizations and more than 50 community networks.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to the proclamation event on Thursday, May 16, at 8:30 a.m. at Fairview Community Health and Wellness Hub located at 45 West 10th Street, St. Paul, Minn. 55102. The ceremony starts at 9 a.m. Media can RSVP to Cristina Oxtra at (763) 349-2047 or cristina.f.oxtra.nfg@army.mil. Visit https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr to learn more about BTYR.

– 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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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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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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
May 3, 2024

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. – Tomorrow, the 247th Financial Management Support Detachment (FMSD) will hold a departure ceremony for Soldiers deploying to the Middle East.

“The 247 FMSD understands how important their responsibilities are and take pride in being some of the most reliable Soldiers in their field,” said Army Col. Jesse Johnson, the 347 Regional Support Group Commander. “Supporting the service members pay and maintaining accountability of U.S. funds have a critical and immediate impact on how successful the mission is.”

The 247 ensures the financial readiness and well-being of the U.S. armed forces and civilian contractors. The 247 FMSD’s mission is essential in providing pay and benefits to service members, managing resources, contracts, and budgeting U.S. funds for the Central Command area of responsibility. This unit’s deployment is part of a regularly scheduled rotation of units.

Approximately 25 Soldiers will deploy from this detachment. This will be the first deployment for more than half of the Soldiers.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the departure ceremony on May 4, at 10 a.m.at the Donaldson Company, 1400 W 94th St, Bloomington, Minn., 55431. Media can RSVP to Army Capt. Will Hermanson at 651-435-3180 or william.t.hermanson.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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EDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
May 2, 2024

LITTLE FALLS, Minn. – Camp Ripley leadership continues annual visits to local community to update about Camp Ripley during the month of May.

“Camp Ripley is one of the busiest training sites in the country,” said Army Col. Troy Fink, Garrison Commander for the Minnesota National Guards Camp Ripley Training Center. “Communicating with our neighbors on what is happening is a part of serving our communities. The community briefs allow us to visit our communities and have a way to connect personally, and really share what we have done, what our training looks like the rest of the year, and what we are hoping to do in the next few years.”

The Camp Ripley 101 is a presentation created each year highlighting Camp Ripley’s mission, construction updates, current leadership, accomplishments, and partners both on and off base. Camp Ripley’s leadership schedules the meeting with the local community to visit and have open dialogue with the neighbors of the installation.

The presentation covers the larger public and training events occurring for the remainder of 2024. Additionally, the 101 covers Ripley’s economic impact on the area and the environmental program’s efforts to support conservation for the base and the surrounding area.

“The community briefs allow us to visit our communities and have a way to connect personally,” said Fink. “To share what we have done, what our training looks like the rest of the year, and what we are hoping to do in the next few years.”

Note: Please see the scheduled briefs to the communities and direct any questions to Army Capt. William Hermanson, Camp Ripley’s Public Affairs Officer, at William.t.hermanson.mil@army.mil or 651-435-3180

Sylvan Township, May 2nd 7 p.m., Sylvan Town Hall

Little Falls, May 6^th, 7:30 p.m., Little Falls City Hall

Crow Wing County, June 18^th, 9:00 a.m., Crow Wing Courthouse  

– 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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
April 24, 2024

LITTLE FALLS, Minn. – This week, members of the Minnesota National Guard are competing alongside NATO partners for the title of the 2024 Minnesota National Guard’s Best Warrior at the Little Falls-based Camp Ripley Training Center.

“The Minnesota National Guard’s impact as an organization extends well beyond our state and now our service members have a chance to work, learn, and compete alongside our NATO partners from Canada, Croatia, and Norway,” said Command Chief Master Sgt. Major Lisa Erikson, Minnesota National Guard’s Command Senior Enlisted Leader. “This event not only provides our Guard members and partners an opportunity to showcase their skills and craft, but it also provides an opportunity to increase our interoperability with the worldwide joint force on a personal level.”

This year’s competition has 24 service members participating. Eight international contenders, including two each from Canada and Norway and four Croatian Soldiers, are competing with the Minnesota service members. This event is the first that all three international partners are competing in Minnesota simultaneously. Sixteen Soldiers and two Airmen from the Minnesota National Guard are competing. The Airmen are from the 133rd Airlift Wing in St. Paul and the 148th Fighter Wing in Duluth.

The Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition is a four-day competition that tests competitors on their Army knowledge. The competition includes an appearance board, written exams and essays, the Army Combat Fitness Test, weapons qualifications, medical evacuation tasks, an obstacle course, and a live fire exercise. All competitors will participate in the “Valor Ruck,” comprising five stations, each dedicated to narrating the heroic tale of a Medal of Honor recipient. Two winners, a noncommissioned officer and a Soldier, will progress to the Region IV Best Warrior Competition hosted by the Iowa National Guard in May.

“The Minnesota National Guard Best Warrior Competition highlights the greatest strength of our organization – its people,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Rost, Minnesota National Guard’s Senior Enlisted Advisor – Army. “The competition affords our competitors an opportunity to demonstrate their competencies, test their skills, and push beyond their physical and mental limits to achieve statewide recognition and the ability to compete at regional and national levels. Our competition allows us to lean into the Army theme of “being all you can be” and demonstrate to others why being a Minnesota Guard member is exceptional.”

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the event on April 26 at 10 a.m., located at Camp Ripley Training Center, 15000 HWY 115 Little Falls, Minn. Media must RSVP to Army Capt. William Hermanson at 651-435-3180 or william.t.hermanson.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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MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
April 17, 2024

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. – To celebrate Month of the Military Child, which is observed each year in April across the United States Department of Defense, the Minnesota National Guard Child & Youth Program will host Purple Up at Mall of America on Friday. The event is designed to recognize the commitment, contributions, and sacrifices military youth make for the nation.

“This is an exciting way to recognize and celebrate our military children. They share the burden of service when their loved ones must be away from home for long periods of time, miss important events in their lives to perform their military duty, or when frequent moves uproot them from something familiar and they must adjust to new and different experiences,” said Laura Groeneweg, Child & Youth Program lead coordinator. “Being able to spend time together and enjoy an event like this is priceless for our military families.”

At the annual open house-style event, military-connected youth and their families can enjoy music, face painting, character appearances, giveaways, treats, rides at Nickelodeon Universe provided by Mall of America, a Build-A-Bear experience provided by USAA and the Minnesota National Guard Association, and more. Purple is the official color of the military child. It is a combination of all the colors of the U.S. Armed Forces — Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard blues, Army green, and Marine Corps red.

Besides the Purple Up event, the Minnesota National Guard Child & Youth Program is hosting an art contest and photo contest. Families can also request a letter from Governor Tim Walz thanking military youth at MinnesotaVeteran.org/militarychild. There are more than 16,000 children in Minnesota who have at least one parent serving in the military.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to the open house at 1 p.m., Friday, April 19, at Mall of America, Culinary North Space, Level 2, located at 60 East Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425. Media can RSVP to Cristina Oxtra at (763) 349-2047 or cristina.f.oxtra.nfg@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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
April 15, 2024

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota National Guard and the Saint Paul Police Department are scheduled to sign an agreement this Wednesday to mark their collaboration supporting the U.S. Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) program.

“The PaYS program is a path of support for our service members’ futures beyond the uniform,” said Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General. “Together, we can achieve far more than we ever could alone, and by working with our civilian partners, such as the St. Paul Police Department, we can ensure that our Soldiers have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.”

The PaYS Program is a strategic partnership between the U.S. Army and a cross section of private industry, academia and state and local public institutes. The U.S. Army PaYS Program guarantees Soldiers five job interviews and possible employment after their service in the Army.

The PaYS Program provides America’s youth with the unique opportunity to simultaneously serve their country and prepare for their future.

The program prepares Soldiers for careers after military service by connecting them with employers who understand the skills, discipline, and work ethic that military service members bring to a business. PaYS is a long-term U.S. Army effort to assist Soldiers in forging professional relationships with businesses and encouraging business owners to look to the Army as a plentiful and reliable recruiting source. Since PaYS began in 2000, more than 1290 employers have partnered with the program.

“As police officers, we are in the service business,” said St. Paul Chief of Police Axel Henry. “We are here to help people. There is no more important area of service than our country’s military members and veterans. If we can establish a partnership to support our military brothers and sisters and help them find new careers with the police department, or anywhere else, we are honored to do so.”

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the event on April 17 at 1 p.m., located at the Veteran’s Service Building, 20 West 12th St, St. Paul, MN 55155. Media must RSVP to Maj. Jodine Eells at 320-423-5571 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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
April 10, 2024

NEW ULM, Minn. – The Minnesota National Guard is moving forward with the second phase of their modernization effort in New Ulm by celebrating the readiness center’s groundbreaking this Friday.

“Groundbreaking for this new armory meets the Minnesota National Guard’s organizational priority of modernization as we continue implementing energy-efficient and green processes into constructing and designing new and existing facilities,” said Army Lt. Col. Adam Riedel, Construction and Facilities Management Officer for the Minnesota National Guard.

Phase one of the New Ulm modernization efforts began in 2022 with the opening of a new field maintenance shop. Now it’s time for phase two: the construction of the new readiness center adjacent to the maintenance shop. The new armory will be over 40,000 sq ft and include classrooms, a fitness center, a learning center, efficient LED lighting, solar panels, and a hybrid heat pump mechanical system.

“Across the state, the Minnesota National Guard has made great strides in modernizing its facilities to meet the ever-evolving training and readiness needs of our Soldiers and Airmen who are always ready to answer the call of our nation and state,” said Army Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard’s Adjutant General. “Designed to house approximately 215 personnel nearly 90 vehicles, the New Ulm Readiness Center will serve as a valuable resource for our Soldiers and the community.”

The ceremony will begin at the New Ulm Armory and move to the groundbreaking site, 2100 Palmer Ave, New Ulm, MN 56073. Mayor Kathleen Backer and Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke will be among the guest speakers.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the event on April 12 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., located at the New Ulm Armory, 205 N Broadway St., New Ulm, MN 56073. Media can RSVP to Sgt. 1st Class Sirrina E. Martinez at 507-829-2967 or sirrina.e.martinez.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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
April 9, 2024

MAPLE GROVE, Minn. – Representatives from Minnesota companies and communities will gather at the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Spring Conference on Thursday at Boston Scientific in Maple Grove to connect, learn, and develop ways to support the state’s military veterans, service members, and families.

“Beyond the Yellow Ribbon is proof of the power and impact made when everyone comes together to help one another,” said Air Force Col. Jesse Carlson, 133rd Airlift Wing commander and Minnesota National Guard representative who will speak at the event. “The program has become a success because of the many companies, organizations, communities, and individuals who tirelessly work together in support of our military community.”

The conference’s theme is Community and Corporate Collaboration. Companies and organizations within the Beyond Yellow Ribbon, also known as BTYR Networks take turns hosting the conference, and Boston Scientific is honored to serve as host.

“As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting military employees and communities, Boston Scientific is proud to celebrate its fifth year as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company,” said Mike Jones, senior vice president and president, Endoscopy, Boston Scientific. “We are honored to host the 2024 BTYR Spring Conference as we continue to support their ongoing work of connecting service members and their families with community support, training, services, and resources.”

Beyond the Yellow Ribbon’s mission is to establish and sustain a comprehensive community and corporate support network that connects and coordinates agencies, organizations, and resources to meet the needs of Minnesota’s military veterans, service members, and families in all military branches. There are 80 active BTYR companies and organizations and 53 cities and counties.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to the conference at 7:30 a.m., Thursday, April 11, at Boston Scientific located at 1 Scimed Place, Maple Grove, Minn., 55311. The conference starts at 8 a.m. Media can RSVP to Cristina Oxtra at (763) 349-2047 or cristina.f.oxtra.nfg@army.mil.

Learn about BTYR at https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil/btyr.

– 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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MEDIA Release: For Immediate Release
April 4, 2024

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Friday, April 5, Minnesota National Guard leaders will recognize five Airmen for their outstanding performance over the last year. The Airman of the Year ceremony will take place at St. Paul’s Veterans Service Building at 10:30 a.m.

“Taking a moment to recognize the individual Airmen who have gone above and beyond in their primary duties is vital as people are the center of any successful organization,” said Command Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Erikson, the Minnesota National Guard’s Command Senior Enlisted Leader.

Members of the Minnesota National Guard’s Saint Paul-based 133rd Airlift Wing and Duluth-based 148th Fighter Wing will gather in support of their 2024 Outstanding Airman of Year recipients. Each unit selected candidates based on job performance, leadership, community involvement, and personal achievement during the previous year. The awards honor the Airmen’s accomplishments and highlight their dedication and devotion to duty.

The Outstanding Airmen for 2024 to be recognized will be:

• Airman Category: Senior Airman Joshua Frandrup, 133rd Airlift Wing

• Non-Commission Officer Category: Tech. Sgt. Richard Schiff, 148th Fighter Wing

• Senior Non-Commission Officer Category: Master Sgt. Alicia Lagarde, 148th Fighter Wing

• Flight First Sergeant Category: Master Sgt. Natalie Dornan, 133rd Airlift Wing

• Company Grade Officer Category: Capt. Phil Larson, 148th Fighter Wing

“These Airmen are being recognized as the Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2024 because they have led, trained, and supported our fellow Airmen and communities to the highest level,” said Erikson. “This ceremony provides us a platform to recognize the achievements of our Airmen and show gratitude for what they have done as they become future leaders within our organization.”

The selecting board consisted of the 133rd Airlift Wing and 148th Fighter Wing Command Chiefs, and the State Command Chief. These Airmen will advance to compete at the regional level.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the event on April 5 at 10:30 a.m., located at the Veterans Service Building, 20 West 12th St., St. Paul, Minn. Media will require assistance to gain access to the 5th floor. Media must RSVP to Air Force Lt. Col. Anna Long at (612) 636-4108 or anna.long@us.af.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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
April 1, 2024

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The U.S. Air Force Band and Singing Sergeants will visit Minnesota as part of its upper-Midwest tour Apr. 7 – 11, 2024.

“We are thrilled for the opportunity to meet people during our performances in Minnesota in April,” said U.S. Air Force Colonel Don Schofield, who serves as the Commander and Conductor of The United States Air Force Band in Washington, D.C. “Partnering with Minnesota-based Air Force leadership during this tour provides the ideal opportunity to enhance relationships with local communities and to give back to those people who have given so much.”

The U.S. Air Force Concert Band and Singing Sergeants are two of the six performing ensembles within the United States Air Force Band, the premier musical organization of the U.S. Air Force. Stationed at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., the U.S. Air Force Band and Singing Sergeants honor those who have served, inspire American citizens to heightened patriotism and service, and connect with the global community on behalf of the U.S. Air Force and the United States of America.

Three of the five Minnesota tour locations will be hosted by local Air Force leadership from the Minnesota National Guard and Air Force Reserves. The cities and dates for the Minnesota-based portion of this tour are:

• Apr. 7 at the Bemidji High School Performing Arts Center, Bemidji, MN
• Apr. 8 in Brainerd
• Apr. 9 in St. Michael-Albertville, hosted by 133rd Airlift Wing Commander, Col. Jesse Carlson
• Apr 10 in Waconia, hosted by 934th Airlift Wing Commander, Col. Samuel Kraemer
• Apr. 11 at the Minnesota Symphony Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis, hosted by 133rd Airlift Wing Deputy Commander Col. Michael Piontek

“I’m very proud to host and share the music of the Air Force Band and Singing Sergeants,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Jesse Carlson, Minnesota National Guard’s 133rd Airlift Wing Commander. “Sharing their talent with Minnesota is something we don’t often get to do. I encourage everyone to come enjoy a very special performance while they are in town.”

 All concerts are free and open to the public. For more information or to reserve your free tickets, visit the tour website at https://www.music.af.mil/USAFBand/Events/National-Tours/Concert[1]Band/.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the scheduled performance(s) of their choice. Please RSVP to Maj. Andrea Kostiuk at 651-331-8041 or andrea.kostiuk@us.af.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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
March 27, 2024

LITTLE FALLS, Minn. – Friday, retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael Meagher will be awarded the Soldiers Medal for his heroic rescue of a man who fell through the ice while ice fishing in the winter of 2022.

“Sgt. 1st Class Meagher’s actions were not only an example of personal courage and selfless service, but his quick and heroic decision to save this man’s life had a generational impact,” said Army Col. Jesse Johnson, Deputy Chief of Staff Logistics for the Minnesota National Guard. “His actions created a bond between Meagher and the Schmidt family that will last beyond their lifetime. His personal efforts on that day are the perfect example of what being a service member in the Minnesota National Guard means: to serve our community members and to always be ready.”

On December 5, 2022, while ice fishing on Swan Lake, Meagher heard something and quickly looked outside his portable fish house. He saw a man who had fallen through the ice, yelling for help. Meagher quickly headed toward Doug Schmidt on the thin ice and used a sled to have Schmidt grab onto and pull him out of the water. Meagher walked Schmidt back to his car, and later that evening, he stopped at Schmidt’s house to check on him, with some walleye to share.

The Soldier’s Medal was established in 1926 to recognize distinguished individual acts of heroism in a non-combat situation. To be awarded the Soldier’s medal, the act of heroism must involve personal hazard or danger in the voluntary risk of life. The award remains the Army’s highest peacetime award. Only 18,520 service members have been awarded this honor since its creation.

Meagher joined the military in October 2002 and retired February 2023 from the Minnesota National Guard.

“Without Mike, I wouldn’t be here,” said Schmidt, the man rescued from the ice. “He was very brave to cross that ice and heaved to get me out. He truly is a hero; without him, my family would not have had a very good Christmas.”

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the award presentation on March 29, at 2 p.m., located at Camp Ripley’s Hanger Conference Room, 15000 Highway 115, Little Falls, Minn. Media must RSVP to Army Capt. William Hermanson at (651) 435-3180 or william.t.hermanson.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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MEDIA RELEASE: For Immediate Release
March 19, 2024

FARIBAULT & WOODBURY, Minn. – The Minnesota National Guard will host events in Faribault, Minn., tomorrow and in Woodbury, Minn., on Friday, providing high school students the chance to experience military occupational specialties in the Guard.

“In the Minnesota National Guard, we live here, we work here, and we serve here,” said Army Lt. Col. Chris Bingham, Minnesota National Guard’s Recruiting and Retention Battalion Commander. “The Minnesota National Guard offers more than 120 military occupational specialties, leadership skills, career opportunities, and healthcare and education benefits. Mission Day allows students to build confidence by engaging in realistic Guard missions.”

Mission Day tests students’ critical thinking, strength, and intelligence. Students will enter the scenario-based footprint comprised of simulated disasters, people in need, and challenges. The participants will experience four missions designed to highlight military specialties within the National Guard using virtual reality. Missions include HAZMAT cleanup, Wildfire Response, Night Vision Rescue, and Field Clinic.

Owatonna and Faribault High School students will attend the event tomorrow at the Faribault Armory. Mission Day will occur at Woodbury High School on Friday for students from Woodbury and the surrounding area. Most Guard applicants are 25 years old or younger. The Guard is the only service component that allows 17-year-olds the opportunity to join with a parent’s or guardian’s permission.

Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the event on March 20 from 10 to 11:30 a.m., located at the Faribault Armory, 3000 West Airport Road, Faribault, Minn., 55021, or March 22 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., located at the Woodbury Highschool fieldhouse, 2665 Woodlane Dr, Woodbury, Minn, 55125. Media must RSVP to Maj. Jodine Eells at 952-237-3136 or jodine.l.eells.mil@army.mil.

-About Mission Day Army National Guard: Mission Day Tour on Vimeo Password: TMA

– 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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“Always Ready, Always There” is a slogan used in the Air National Guard. When service members choose to enlist in the Air National Guard, they choose to serve their state and nation and can be deployed for military contingencies, humanitarian efforts, restoration of peace, and to support natural disasters.

The Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing recently completed a three-month aviation deployment tasking at Kadena Air Base, Japan, in support of U.S. Pacific Air Forces missions in the Indo-Pacific area of responsibility. The 148th flies the Block 50 F-16 Fighting Falcon and conducts the suppression and destruction of enemy air defenses (SEAD/DEAD) mission.

Nearly 10% of the 300-person deployment package, were serving on their sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth overseas deployment.

179th Fighter Squadron F-16 pilot, Maj. Josh Fellegy enlisted in the Minnesota Air National Guard in 1998 as a Fighter Integrated Avionics specialist. While attending college at St. Cloud State University, Fellegy was mobilized into active duty after the 9/11 attacks for two years. His education was put on pause while he supported NORAD’s Aerospace Control Alert mission across the U.S. in support of Operation Noble Eagle.

Fellegy deployed Balad Air Base, Iraq, in 2005, 2007, and 2009, as an avionics specialist in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

After Fellegy completed his degree, he was commissioned and began undergraduate pilot training in 2010. Since then, Fellegy deployed to Osan Air Base, South Korea, in 2016 as part of a theater security package; Ahmad al-Jaber, Kuwait, in 2018 in support of Operation Inherent Resolve; Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, in 2022 in support of Operations Inherent Resolve and New Dawn; and Kadena Air Base in 2024 for a total of seven overseas deployments.

148th Fabrication Element Superintendent, Senior Master Mark Sgt. Van Rossem enlisted in 2000 as an Aircraft Armament Specialist. The Superior Senior High School graduate was mobilized into active duty after 9/11. Within days he was sent to Minneapolis, Minn., to support NORAD’s 24/7 Aerospace Control Alert mission.

Van Rossem deployed to Balad Air Base, Iraq, in 2005, 2007, and 2009 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. It was during his second deployment to Iraq, where he volunteered in the base Intensive Care Unit after working 12-hours shifts, that he decided to pursue a career as a Registered Nurse. In 2013, he earned his Professional Nursing associate of science degree from Lake Superior College.

Van Rossem also deployed Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan, in 2012 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Osan Air Base, Korea, in 2016 as part of a theater security package, Ahmad al-Jaber Air Base, Kuwait, in 2018 in support of Operation Inherent Resolve; Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, in 2022 in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and New Dawn; and most recently Kadena Air Base, Japan in 2024 in support of U.S. Pacific Air Forces missions for a total of eight overseas deployments.

Although Van Rossem was educated as a Registered Nurse, he accepted full time employment as an Aircraft Armament Specialist with the 148th Fighter Wing in 2014, as it was the vocation he was most passionate about.

Despite all the travel, Van Rossem says “joining the Minnesota Air National Guard was the best decision I’ve made. I enjoy my job, my coworkers and the friendships I’ve made during 24 years of service”

A 2019 Pew Research Center survey of U.S. Veterans titled “the American Veteran Experience and the Post 9/11 Generation” stated 77% of post-9/11 veterans were deployed at least once, compared with 58% of veterans who served prior to 9/11.

“This post 9-11 generation of Air National Guard members deploy more than most Active component Airman over their career,” said Air National Guard Assistant to the 11th Air Force Commander, Brig. Gen. Chris Blomquist. “We are an operational force that America depends on continuously, at home and overseas. The days of being a strategic reserve are long gone.”

Blomquist, who also serves as the full time Chief of Staff for the Minnesota Air National Guard enlisted as an Avionics Specialist at the 148th Fighter Wing in 1992. He earned his commission and began undergraduate pilot training in 1996. Blomquist deployed to Balad Air Base, Iraq in 2005, 2007, and 2009 as a fighter pilot, and to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan in 2012 as a squadron commander, along with supporting many NORAD homeland defense deployments.

In addition to the overseas deployments, most of the post-9/11 airmen assigned to the 148th supported NORAD Aerospace Control Alert mission. Immediately after 9/11, the 148th mobilized nearly 500, or 50%, of Wing personnel into active duty. Over the course of two years, the 148th conducted 24/7 alert operations from Minneapolis, Minn., Langley Air Force Base, Va., Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., and from home station in Duluth, Minn.

In 2007, after the grounding of the F-15C Eagle, the 148th assumed alert at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, for three months. In 2008, for the same reason, the 148th assumed alert at Elmendorf Air Base, Alaska, where they were the first F-16 flying wing to intercept a Russian Bear Bomber. The 148th flew 24/7 home station alert from late 2001 until June of 2013.

The Air National Guard has a unique role that supports Federal and State missions. The 148th remains a NORAD Aerospace Control Alert-trained flying wing that provides mission-ready Airmen and equipment to meet both state and federal tasking while promoting critical partnership.

Story by Audra Flanagan

Minnesota Air National Guard Public Affairs

Did you know that roughly one-third, or 500 million acres, of the U.S. is forest? And did you know that Puerto Rico’s El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. that is considered a jungle? By definition, a forest has many tall trees and can usually be traveled by humans, while a jungle is usually dense and overgrown with a tropical or humid climate.

So why did a Security Forces Specialist assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard, travel to the pacific to participate in the Air Forces’ new Jungle Agile Employment Course?

An instructor and planner for the Air National Guard’s Cold Weather Operations Course at Camp Ripley Training Center, Minn., Master Sgt. Ian Nickila, “wanted to learn the finer details of operating and surviving in the jungle climate.”

The 10-day JACE course, attended by 22 service members from the Air Force, Army, and Marines, was planned and executed by the 36th Contingency Response Group and the 736th Security Forces Squadron, Anderson Air Force Base, Guam. The CRG mission is to advise, defend, construct, connect, and operate. The 736th is creating training to help Airmen produce a rapid Air Base Opening during Humanitarian Assistance or Disaster Relief mission.

“The core purpose of the course is to prepare airmen who will execute future Agile Combat Employment operations, at small spokes skills necessary to survive if support is interrupted or delayed, will be vital” said Capt. Wyatt Huff, Operations Officer with the 736th Security Forces Squadron and lead course developer.

The JACE contained survival-based curriculum to include survival, navigation, force protection, and mobility skills. Students collected and purified food and water, trained on cliffside rappelling, knot tying, building hasty shelters, and fire starting.

“On day one, Nickila stood out as an avid outdoorsman and his desire to share his skills was of great benefit to his classmates,” said Huff.

The three-day field training exercise included agile combat employment concepts, allowing Nickila and his classmates to practice operations with speed, scope, and complexity found in recent campaigns.

While in the field, the class attendees “were hunted by the course planners, or CADRE, so we built hasty shelters to sleep in,” said Nickila.

The physically grueling course taught Nickila “the importance of water,” he said. “I’ve always known I need water but determining how much I need and how much I wanted to carry in my ruck was a challenge.” Nickila filled a camelback, a canteen, and Nalgene bottle three times a day, and still fought dehydration. “I realized if I was struggling, that others would be, so finding an abundant and consistent water source is vital to operating in the jungle.”

Nickila, a 2005 graduate of Duluth Denfeld High School, joined the Air National Guard prior to his senior year of high school. “After September 11th, I knew I wanted to join the military,” said Nickila. “I talked to all types of recruiters. My father’s Army unit was activated at the 148th during Operation Noble Eagle; he convinced me that Security Forces would be a good fit.”

Since joining, Nickila has deployed to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan; Eskan Village Compound, Saudi Arabia; Thumrait Air Base, Oman; Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar; and Amahd al-Jaber Air Air Base, Kuwait in addition to participating several specialized training exercises.

“Having ‘Defenders” with diverse training backgrounds is a key to our future success,” said 148th Security Forces Operations Superintendent, Senior Master Sgt. Ben Nyen. “Ian has extensive experience in the Middle East and has always stepped up to increase his knowledge base. As a person who winter camps for fun, the Cold Weather Operations Course was a great opportunity for him to show his skills an instructor. Now he can teach the opposing lessons learned at the JACE course to our squadron.”

Bibliography

U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service (2013). By the Numbers. Retrieved from By the Numbers | US Forest Service

U.S. Air Force (2021). U.S. Air Force Doctrine Note 1-21, Agile Combat Employment (2021, Dec. 21). Retrieved from https://www.af.mil/Portals/1/documents/Force%20Management/AFDN_1-21_ACE.pdf

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