Minot Air Force Base 60th Year by MinotDailyNews

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In the earliest of days

60 years - 1955-2015

Construction is under way at Minot Air Force Base in this photo from 1956.

July 9, 2015

Submitted photo

A number of The Minot Daily News readers who were active-duty military members or civilian employees at Minot Air Force Base have submitted stories about the base in recognition of the 60th anniversary of the groundbreaking for the base. The groundbreaking took place on July 12, 1955. The publication includes a number of guest columnists who have provided insight into the present and future of the base.

July 9, 2015

60 years

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Owen Brenden, of Minot, was an engineer with the civil engineer unit at Minot Air Force Base for 29 years, arriving in 1987. He was the second Air Force civilian engineer assigned to the base.

Eloise Ogden/MDN

Owen Brenden: Remembering the early days of Minot AFB BY ELOISE OGDEN

Regional Editor eogden @minotdailynews.com MINOT AIR FORCE BASE — When Minot Air Force Base’s newspaper wrote a story about Owen Brenden for his retirement after 29 years of service in 1987, the writer said Brenden “is as much a part of Minot AFB’s history as the ICBM or the B-52.” Brenden, who continues to make his home in Minot, began working at Minot AFB in 1958, only a year or so after the base was activated. He was the second Air Force civilian engineer assigned to the base. Maurice Isaacson, who hired Brenden, was the first civilian engineer. Originally from Bottineau County, Brenden became the base’s chief

engineer in 1962 and held that position until his retirement in 1987. Prior, he served in the Air Force from 1950-54, then went to North Dakota State University, Fargo, on the GI bill, graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering. “I wanted to stay around home and it was a time when engineers were in demand,” he said. He got three offers for jobs and chose Minot AFB because it was close to home and also because of the benefits, he said. When he began work at the air base he said it didn’t have a lot of facilities yet. “The control tower was there and base operations. They were working on the runway. There were a few buildings. The Civil Engineer building was there, of course, and the fire station (near base operations).”

He said there wasn’t any housing yet. “It wasn’t quiet though. It was busy with construction,” Brenden said. He said extensive construction activity would continue for those next years. “We built 2,461 houses. Actually, we built 2,462 but one of them burned down. He said 300 of the houses were relocatables. When he was first there, he said a Division (810th Strategic Aerospace Division) was over Minot AFB with Brig. Gen. John McPherson in charge. Brenden remembers when he was being hired for an engineer job he had to see Maj. Joe Roberts. “That was one of the things I had to go do was interview with him before Maurice could hire me,” Brenden said. Roberts See EARLY — Page 28

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60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

Delightful memories of teaching music at North Plains By JUDY SPITZER Minot

I have delightful memories of teaching vocal music at North Plains Elementary. It was my first year of teaching elementary music and the kids were wonderful. On Nov. 22, 1963, I was in a room above the stairs off the gym (perhaps a temporary classroom). Patricia Holmen was the classroom teacher of a 3rd grade class when principal Will Laabs made the announcement over the intercom of JFK’s death. It echoed loudly in the gym. A person never forgets that date. Another North Plains memory was a fire drill with some code word that meant (for the teacher’s benefit) ... “This is for real!!” ... Construction of a new wing was under way and they dug into a gas line and were fearful of an explosion! Only a few (maybe custodians) went in to get purses and car keys. The students were sent home. Scary. Jerry and I were married the Wednesday before Thanksgiving in 1964. As we were recently looking through memorabilia we found the “Carmina Burana” program from the Submitted photo weekend prior to our wedding. Jerry was playing Judy and Jerry Spitzer string bass in the symphony (Dr. Ira Schwarz, Director) was in Latin. The students Principal) and at Lincoln and I was directing the chil- were from North Plains on Elementary (Ella Johnson, (Will Laabs, Principal). dren’s chorus. Their part MAFB Jerry and I both taught music in the two schools on different days. The kids practiced during noon “hour” (I actually think we did have close to an hour as some kids went home for lunch.) We rehearsed in the gym or kitchen. The performance was an exciting event for the young stuSubmitted art dents to sing with the Minot This is a list including students from North Plains Elementary at Minot Air High Chorus (Hardy Lieberg, Director) and the Force Base and Lincoln Elementary in Minot who took part in “Carmina Burana” Nov. 22, 1964, at Minot State University. Minot State vocal groups.

July 9, 2015

60 years

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Started as Minot AFB missile engineer in ’67 By MATTHEW M. KLEIN ing the missile wing with deputy civil engineer. Minot

I started employment at Minot AFB as a missile engineer in July 1967 designing, managing, inspecting construction projects at the missile sites. Mr. Owen J. Brenden was the Klein chief of the Engineering Branch, Mr. Lyle A. Dagner was the chief of Missile Engineering, and Mr. Maurice G. Isaacson was the deputy base civil engineer. The base civil engineer was officially a full colonel managing about 750 military and civilian personnel. Major construction/renovation/repair work was constantly under way support-

150 Minuteman I missiles, the bomb wing with a squadron of B-52 bombers, and KC-135 tanker aircraft. The 5th Fighter Squadron with F-106 aircraft, the helicopter squadron, the base housing complex, trailer court, numerous support facilities, including the South Radar Base and Fortuna facilities. Shortly thereafter Boeing started a major program to upgrade the Minuteman I to the multi-warhead Minuteman III. Missile engineering was involved as part of the inspection/acceptance process. In 1978 I accepted a job with the U.S. Army in Stuttgart, Germany, as a staff engineer at 7th Corps Hdqtrs, returning to Minot AFB in 1981 and then accepting the job of base

During the Reagan years a major military buildup took place and major construction took place at Minot AFB with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers managing all military construction. I accepted the position of Corps resident engineer and about $420 million worth of projects were constructed, including the new hospital, air-launched cruise missile facilities, F-15 fighter conversion facilities, dorm renovations, a B-52 hangar, helicopter hangar, missile storage facilities in the weapons storage area, etc. The Corps of Engineers staff had grown from two people, John Sinn and Tony Frank, to about 26 people during that time. In August 1989 I chose to retire from any civil service career as work slowed down at the base.

A tribute to Dr. Gale Teske By ANN PHIPPS JOANNE AUSTIN VICKIE PIOTROWSKI North Plains teachers, all of Minot

The Magic City Gate welcomes all with “ONLY THE BEST COME NORTH” w h i c h reflects Dr. Gale Teske, principal for 21 years (1973-1994) at North P l a i n s Elementary, Teske Minot Air Force Base. He was an excellent leader; kind, caring and always putting kids first. He valued people and their contributions and left this world a better place.

In his retirement letter (due to health) to North Plains parents he wrote, “I have truly enjoyed working with you and your children. Each child has been special in his or her own way and has made me feel so lucky to be a part of their lives. Your children have enriched my life immensely and I hope I have touched theirs. Thank you for all your support in helping to make your children’s education so important and formative years successful. I hope you will continue to do so because your children are tomorrow’s future; but today’s most precious jewel.” During his years at North Plains Elementary, he developed a phenomenal volunteer program for Moms and Dads. He stated that if par-

ents were involved in their child’s education, they naturally were better parents. Many, many volunteers enhanced the education of the students. The North Plains staff thought of Dr. Teske as a toprated principal. He was always available, believed in his staff and cared for everyone. One didn’t work for him, but worked with him. He reminded his teachers, “You are here to teach. I’ll handle the problems so you can teach children.” To his staff that was a reassuring blessing from Dr. Teske! Staff members, along with many students at North Plains, have positive memories of those 21 years — an educational tribute and a big Thank You to Dr. Teske.

60 years - 1955-2015

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July 9, 2015

DEFCON V alert at Minot Air Force Base

By AIRMAN 2nd CLASS hours time to be fully manned and prepared to THOMAS B. ship out. A skeleton crew MacCLENNAN POL Section 862nd Supply Sq. (aircraft refueling) Minot

was left on the base and the rest of the support personnel and aircraft left for other bases in Alaska and Florida on the 17th of October. The very same day my daughter was born. Everyone was wired thinking this is it. Like everyone else I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get much sleep for the next two weeks. P.S. By the 21st of October the services were down to DEFCON III.

On the nite of Oct. 16th, 1962, I was dispatching for the Fuels Section. At 8:12 p.m. the phone rang. I answered it, it was headquarters SAC Offutt AFB in Omaha, Neb. A major notified me through proper protocol that the Air Force was on DEFCON V alert. This is (Thomas MacClennan the real deal! served at Minot AFB: January Our unit was given three 1961-May 1964)

Thomas B. MacClennan in 1962.

Submitted photo

60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

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Submitted photo

Le Roy “Lee” Schoffstall first served at Minot AFB in the early 1960s. This 1961 Air Force photo shows the base with hangars in the background. See Schoffstallʼs story for more details about the photo.

Memories of Minot AFB By LE ROY “LEE” SCHOFFSTALL, MSgt. (Ret.) Minot

My name is Le Roy J. (Lee) Schoffstall. I came into the Air Force on 4 Oct. 1960, and was assigned to Minot

AFB the first time from December 1960 to August 1963. I have two areas that are of interest — actually more than that, but I’ll keep it to these two. My first is the Cuban Missile crisis, and the second, my duty office

was Base Redistribution and Marketing Office Minot AFB, N.D., was my first duty station in the Air Force. I arrived by train the evening of 19 December 1960. It was snowing and the road to the base was two lanes and the end of Minot

was North Hill. I was an A3C, assigned to the 32nd MATRON, part of the 32nd Fighter Group (ADC). Initially I worked in the Redistribution and See BASE — Page 8

60 years - 1955-2015

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Dedicated community support critical to mission

Minot Air Force Base did not have many trees in the early 1960s when Le Roy “Lee” Schoffstall first served there, shown in this 1961 Air Force photo of Redistribution and Marketing, one of the sites where Schoffstall was assigned. He gives more information about the photo in his story.

By WALTER SKRAINY Jr., Colonel, USAF (Ret.) Hampshire, Ill.

From 1981-83 I had the honor of commanding the 742nd Strategic Missile Squadron, a unit of the 91st Missile Wing at Minot Air Force Base. This mission, during the height of the Cold War with the Soviet Union, proved to be one of the highlights of my Air Force career. The nuclear deterrent mission placed unique demanding requirements on not only the men and women under my command but also their family members. The Air Force‘s Human Reliability Program required that only highly competent and mentally stable personnel were assigned missile alert duty. A dedicated community support environment was critical to our mission. Minot and the rural towns spread throughout the large missile field provided outstanding support. On a more personal note during my first assignment at Malmstrom AFB, Mont., in 1965-66 I met and married Phyllis Zieman, a Makoti girl. She was a nursing student in Great Falls for pediatric training as part of St Andrew‘s School of Nursing in Bottineau. Thus Phyllis, I and our three daughters Karen, Kristin and Kelly received special family support from the T. E. Zieman family. Even though the Soviet Union no longer exists and the Cold War has been declared over, the global world is still struggling to find a new stable order. Minot AFB and its multiple missions continue to be a bulwark for U.S. national security. May this special relationship between the base, Minot and the surrounding communities continue to prosper.

July 9, 2015

Base

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Marketing (R&M) front office within Base Supply. The building is 437 and it used to be part of Base Supply in the ’60s, then the BX and is now Security Forces Training Center. I’ve enclosed some pictures of the outside storage lot for R&M Schoffstall located just north of the present Base Supply facility — these were taken around the 1961 timeframe. Note the vehicle years, also my 1955 Chevy is parked in front of the trailer office. There were not a lot of trees, since it was a new base. Also the base housing is pictured in the background. The outside storage lot building was a blue trailer, and the clothing storage was in large wall tents. I was reassigned to the Strategic Air Command (SAC) 1 July 1962; witnessed the arrival of the first B-52H’s that came to Minot AFB, some KC-135s were

Submitted photo

already here. At the same time period I was transferred to the 862nd Supply Squadron, and worked in the Orderly Room. The squadron Orderly Room was located in the Dorm just NE of the Dakota Inn Dinning Facility and has since been torn down. The Orderly Room was on the 1st Floor and I lived on the 2nd. The dorm rooms were designed for two airman, but with the increase of personnel coming to the base with SAC, we had four per room, two bunk beds, one small table and chair and four lockers. My number one event that was paramount in my mind while at Minot AFB was the Cuban Missile crisis in October 1962. While working in the Orderly Room, all was business as usual. The base and all seemed so quiet, as if waiting for something to happen or not knowing what was next. I worked for the first sergeant (SMSgt Robet T. Goodrich). For many weeks it was long duty days, with night shifts till midnight. I came in on night duty — mainly to man the phones but to also type up additional duties assignments, they were called

Dirty Purples, and some Article 15s and discharge requests, not many but the normal routine work load. Also, I was the squadron mail clerk. The mail room was located on the 2nd floor of the dorm. Even with DEFCON alert status the mail room still had to function. The SAC alert pad (Christmas Tree) was loaded with B-52Hs all ready to go to war. The SAGE building (ADC) was active at that time and up and running. We mainly waited for news daily — will war happen or will we go back to normal duty? This was the only time in my Air Force career that I’d seen or will see DEFCON 2 while assigned to SAC. Construction just started on the missile field so they were not a factor. While the 5th Fighter Squadron, with their F-106s were also on DEFCON alert status. When all was said and done this was a very tense time, especially at my grade level (A1C). I did not have much information besides what we heard on the news and fellow AF members in conversation. All ended well, so much so

that I married (June 1963) my girlfriend (Marlene Sailer), she grew up in Minot. I departed Minot AFB August 1963 PCS to Korea. Additional information on my duty and tours at Minot AFB: As stated earlier I initially came to Minot AFB December 1960 and departed August 1963. My second tour, we came back to Minot AFB from Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, in July 1977. I was assigned to the 23rd Bomb Squadron (SAC) and worked as NCOIC of the Orderly Room. In 1979 I moved to the 5th Bomb Wing (SAC), Wing Staff, and then in late 1980 took over as first sergeant (for the) 91st Civil Engineering Squadron (SAC). I retired from the Air Force in that position May 1983. I came back on Minot AFB in March 1987 as a GS-4 in the Base Manpower and Organization office. Retired from Civil Service Minot AFB as Chief (GS-12) Manpower and Organization for the 5th Bomb Wing and the 91st Space Wing September 2008. Marlene and myself stayed in Minot and currently live at 191612th NW, Minot, ND.

July 9, 2015

60 years - 1955-2015 Page 9 What I remember about Minot By SHEILA BROUGHTON Irvine, Calif.

Our family lived in Minot, North Dakota, in the early 1960s when my father, Col. Jacksel M. Broughton, was commander of the 5th Fighter Squadron flying the F-106 aircraft. I have two vivid memories from the winter of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;62 when I was 2 1/2 years old. Vivid, yes, for being so young but those moments made a big impression on my little mind. One of those memories is a tribute to Minotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s infamous winter weather. I remember standing in our homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s driveway trying to walk but I could not move, not one single inch. The wind was so strong and so icy cold that no matter how desperately I tried to make my small body press forward, I simply stood still as a statue in that weather. The second precious memory I have of Minot is from the same season, same young age and just as powerful of a mental imprint, only this one carries much more emotion for me. This day was free of any blizzard-like winds. The bright sun showed pretty white snow everywhere. I sat calmly, yet watched intensely as my father threw snowballs in the process of playing a game of catch with a pair of cute baby animals he called the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spittinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Kittensâ&#x20AC;?(of course, I grew up to learn that these were the squadronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beloved lynx). I will never forget that amazing feeling Submitted photo of being totally happy just Col. Jack Broughton is shown here with the lynx cats, mascots of the 5th to be me â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a little girl Fighter Interceptor Squadron at Minot Air Force Base. The photo is cour- spending that very moment tesy of Sheila Broughton. with her daddy, Col. Jack

Submitted photo

The patch of the 5th Fighter Interceptor Squadron at Minot Air Force Base was a lynx cat, shown in this photo courtesy of Sheila Broughton. cer, died Oct. 24, 2014, in Broughton. Lake Forest, Calif., at the (Col. Jack Broughton, a combat pilot and career offi- age of 89.)

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60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

‘Minot was the start of it all’ By WILLIAM D. DAWKINS Maj. USAF (Ret.)

Submitted photo

This family photo taken at Minot Air Force Base is from Chuck Senn, a retired Air Force colonel from Alexandra, Va. He said the photo “describes family conditions to a T.” The photo is of a backyard Easter egg hunt in 1962 at 113 Summit Drive at the base. The little boy in the photo is Dick Thomasʼ son and the girls are the Sennsʼ daughters. The Thomas family lived next door to the Senn family.

Minot AFB: An active base Retired Air Force Col. Chuck Senn, of Alexandria, Va., was a bombardier-navigator with a B-52 crew at Minot Air Force Base in the early 1960s. He was a member of one of the first crews with the base’s first B-52s. When he was at Minot AFB, Senn, in an interview last year, said the F-106s, the tankers... “everything was here. It Senn was a really active base.” A native of Mott, Senn spent 38 years in the military, including eight years in the Navy and 30 years in the Air Force.

Chuck Senn, a retired Air Force colonel from Alexandria, Va., found these photos of what family life was like for the folks that came from bases like Homestead AFB, Florida, south of Miami, to Minot Air Force Base in the 1960s. He provided these photos describing that period during which time the Senns lived on the Minot base at 113 Summit Drive in a fourplex and their next-door neighbor was the Dick Thomas family. Submitted photo

I joined the USAF when I was 24 and living in North Carolina. On my enlistment forms I indicated that I wanted to be assigned to a base in North Carolina and if not N.C., then some place in the South Eastern U.S.. Well. USAF tried to accommodate me to the extent they could. My first assignment was to a state that did have “North” as part of its name. And North Western is the reciprocal of South Eastern. Dawkins So… It would be a gross understatement to say I am so very very thankful it happened that way. I like the way things turned out. The start was a little rocky though. I moved into a second floor room on base in the summer of 1973 and watched the white lined parking spaces out my window disappear under a covering of sleet in, if memory serves, October 1973. I didn’t see those lines again until sometime the next year. I was a maintenance analyst for 5th Bomb Wing and across the hall from me worked a cute little redhead civilian, Kathy Vollbrecht, from downtown. She eventually agreed to go out with me. We ended up getting married and had our first daughter in Minot. I fell in love with the whole Vollbrecht clan. Her dad took me deer hunting and gave me my first snowmobile. Her mom cooked fantastic meals (I can still taste the walleye, and the berry pies). Her brothers and sisters became great friends and are a cherished part of my family today. By the time I left Minot AFB in 1977 I had worked for 5BW, 5AMS, and 91SMW. I became friends with other airmen who are still friends, was promoted to SSgt, and was named an outstanding airman by the missile wing. I was raised by River Jordan Lodge AF&AM. Thanks to the uniformed professionals on Minot AFB, and the wonderful people of Minot, N.D., and most especially my bride, my USAF career was very rewarding. I had several more assignments in my 20-year career, received three college degrees, was commissioned, commanded two units, and retired in 1993. Kathy Vollbrecht Dawkins and I have been married 40-plus years now and have three daughters and five grandchildren. I am still a member of the AF&AM Lodge downtown (Star in West since they merged with River Jordan). Best wishes to my Brothers-in-law; Brothers in arms; and Masonic Brothers. Minot was the start of it all.

60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

Paul Engeldinger is shown here with a missile on a trailer. He was stationed at Minot Air Force Base three times (21 of 24 years) and worked in both wings as a missile maintainer. He also flew on the BUFF as a non-crew member, assistant to the navigator on training missions when they were loaded with Hound Dog missiles on captive flights, using simulated launch for scoring.

Christensen assigned to Minot AFB 2 different times By JOHN F. CHRISTENSEN Las Vegas, Nev.

My name is John F. Christensen and I am a retired United States Air Force Technical Sargeant. I had the pleasure of being stationed in Minot two different times about 10 years apart. My first time at Minot Air Force Base began in 1964 and ended in 1966. I was assigned to the Civil Engineering Squadron as a heavy equipment operator. I returned to Minot Air Force Base in 1977 and left in 1980. I was assigned to be a Production Control Specialist and I was involved in setting up the Prime Base Engineer Emergency Force (BEEF) program for the Civil Engineering Squadron. I retired in 1980 at Minot Air Force Base and now reside in Las Vegas, Nevada. I enjoy working in my wood shop making walking sticks and canes. I also enjoy spending time with my son, his wife, my three grandchildren, and of course my beautiful wife. My favorite event while stationed in Minot was marrying my wonderful wife, Joan, 46 years ago. I met Joan in 1966 during my first tour in Minot. She is still my best friend and the love of my life. I will be back in the Minot area July of this year for a family reunion and I would like to visit my old squadron.

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An experience on the flightline By PAUL ENGELDINGER MSgt, USAF (Ret.) Burlington

In September 1969 I was assigned to Minot Air Force Base as my first duty assignment after technical school. I was an electronic systems analyst for the Hound Dog Missile System, AGM28 B. I worked on a five-man team in the flight line branch of the 5th Airborne Missile Maintenance Squadron, 5th Bombardment Wing. We uploaded/ downloaded, operational checked the missiles, one under each wing of the B-52H Stratofortress. We also operational checked, troubleshot and removed and replaced the associated missile components within the bomber. One day (night), in the wee hours of the morning in about 1971 or ‘72, we were working around the clock putting B-52s back on alert, each loaded with Hound Dog mis-

siles, after they had flown a successful training mission for an Operational Readiness Inspection (ORI). The bomber, loaded with missiles, would taxi to the alert pad or to the SAC parking ramp to get a post flight inspection, refuel, etc. It then would get ready to go back on alert with the “dummy” weapons removed and operational (real) weapons and warheads installed. The Hound Dog Missile was unique in that it had a ballast (dummy) warhead installed for training flights and an operational warhead installed for strategic alert. The 5th Munitions Maintenance Squadron would do the swap out after the missiles were uploaded on the bomber. Sometimes, after an ORI, a bomber must go on alert but with a missile, or missiles, that it did not fly with on that mission. That day (night) I had to tow a missile from the squadron area (near the west end of the taxiway)

to the alert area at the east end of the active runway. I drove alone in the two seat, enclosed Coleman tractor with a missile in tow to the parking ramp, where most of our flight line maintenance is done. I then proceeded to the “red line” at the taxiway which cannot be crossed without explicit permission. The Coleman tractor had no radio and I had no escort vehicle to accompany me. I waited for the predetermined signal. The control tower flashed the light, signaling me to proceed. The authorized maximum speed to tow the missile was five miles per hour. I cautiously entered the taxiway, heading to the alert pad. Towing the missile was uneventful, with only the sounds to accompany me, besides the drone of the tractor engine, were the distance sounds of various types of generators and power equipment, and the shrill whine of a bomber’s engines... Except it was getting a bit louder. I began to nerv-

ously look about me instead of just the taxiway in front, poorly lit by the tractor’s headlights. To my horror a B-52 was taxiing up behind me and gaining on me. I’m thinking, “Does the crew know I’m here? Do they even see me? I have no radio and no escort vehicle.” “Survival” and “cover my posterior” kicked in. I’m not sure how fast I towed that missile, but it wasn’t five miles per hour! I didn’t look back again, except to watch my missile in tow, as I strained to see the black taxiway in front of me. After a bit I did steal a look back only to see that the bomber was now a safer distance away. Whew! I must say that as I retell the story, my heart is pounding as if it was happening now. You know, flight line was tough work. But I’d go back in a second. Minot AFB was my 1st, 3rd and 5th (last) assignment, working in both the bomb wing and the missile wing.

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July 9, 2015

Many Minot AFB people stay or return here By BERNIE PELLENWESSEL Minot

I was born in Chicago, Illinois, raised on a farm in northern Indiana and enlisted in the United States Air Force (USAF) in 1961. After basic training at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, I served a semi-remote tour of duty with the 731st Radar Squadron at Sundance, Wyoming, and was later transferred to the 5th Fighter Interceptor Squadron (5th FIS) at Minot Air Force Base (MAFB) where I served from 1963 to 1965. My transfer date was in April 1963 and I’d never heard of Minot, North Dakota or MAFB. However, prior to the actual transfer date and while

Circa 1960s

Today

Bernie Pellenwessel

still at Sundance, I happened to hear of a new guy arriving in Sundance from MAFB. Out of curiosity, I spent half a day finding him (who was a guy named Larry Griffith) and questioned him about my upcoming North Dakota assignment. He began painting a picture of Minot, North Dakota, and MAFB, similar to that found in

the infamous “Minot joke book” that could be found in various local stores. The verbal painting suggested that a highrise in North Dakota was a grain elevator; or that the state had no trees and was so flat, that you could go 2 days AWOL and they could wave you back and you could still see the wave; or the mosquitoes were so large that if you stepped off base sidewalks, the mosquitoes could literally knock you over; or there were only 2 TV stations and they would go off the air at midnight; or the yearly seasons were “winter and 4th of July and winter” (i.e., my 1st winter started around October 1, 1963, and ended around June 1, 1964); etc., etc. Although I eventually found

out that a lot of the “joke book” material had some truth to it, I was fortunate to have had the experience of serving in the 5th FIS, which was one of the best in the Air Force, under the command of Lt. Col. Jacksel M. Broughton, a fabulous man, pilot, leader and also one of the best in the Air Force! Members of the 5th FIS (officers, NCOs, airmen) were a fairly close knit group and there was a good relationship between MAFB and the city of Minot. At the time of my discharge, I gladly vowed to leave “this place” as soon as possible and “never, ever come back” and left to return to Indiana and resume life. Despite that vow, however, I continued to keep in touch

with some of my 5th FIS buddies and they indicated that they had decided to stay in the area after discharge and really liked it! Consequently, because of their various “good” comments and the fact that I had gotten used to life in the “wide open” spaces of the West, I decided to return and arrived back in the “Magic City” of Minot one year and one day later and as they say, “the rest is history!” Every state bemoans the fact that they lose their young people to other states, but Minot is fortunate to have MAFB, because a substantial number of base personnel have stayed or returned and have become an integral part of this state and this area!!!

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July 9, 2015

Itʼs typical, of course, for someone to get “hosed down” upon landing from his final flight. This photo shows my executive officer, Capt. Ed Donaldson, spraying me with champagne. What they didnʼt count on was that I would come down out of the B-52 fighting — wearing a plastic bag, and wielding a hand-held waterspraying fire extinguisher — and going on the offensive! I knew Iʼd end up soaking wet ... but the assembled crowd hadnʼt counted on going on the defensive! I think this is a good photo for highlighting the “Camaraderie among the Air Force team”! Submitted photo

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This was a photo my wife, Ina, took of me late one night in November 1995, while I was the 5th Bomb Wingʼs Operations Group commander. It was after midnight, and as was not so unusual, one of our B-52s had declared an “emergency” and was returning home. (Sometimes, these were “routine” emergencies, such as a loss of an engine (only seven to go!), and sometimes they could be serious (a gear that wouldnʼt come down). As the Ops Group commander, I was always called — and was part of the team working the problem — no matter what time, day or night. I was likely talking with the Supervisor of Flying (typically the captain spending the night on the flightline to be the “first person to contact”) and the Command Post on the hand-held walkie-talkie (aka “The Brick”), and was talking with the squadron commander on the other phone — when the wing commander (who always had a radio by HIS bedside!) called me on the “land-line” (the white home phone) to see what was going on. My wife, of course, was laughing and snapping photos ... the 1995 version of a conference call! These days, we could do it all on a single smartphone. Submitted photo

Minot people the friendliest and most loyal of any in 36 moves By CURTIS M. BEDKE, Maj. Gen. (Ret.)

Crystal City, Arlington, Va. The sign at the front gate says “Only the Best Come North.” I told people that I loved the sign, but it just wasn’t true. Then I would pause just long enough to wait until they looked at me like I was some kind of traitor, and then I’d say: “The Air Force sends good people here, but they’re no better or worse than the average. It’s what we do with them here at Minot ONCE THEY GET HERE that makes sure that they’re THE

BEST BY THE TIME THEY LEAVE!” The people of the community of Minot are the friendliest and most loyal of any I saw in 36 moves throughout my time in the Air Force. They would show up – usually (but to be fair, not always) unannounced – be the first to arrive at the party, and the last to leave ... literally stuffing cookies and candy into their coat pockets on the way out the door! (This is a true story — and Bruce Christianson will admit to it!) We still see the Minot crowd about twice a year, no matter where we’re living. I attribute this to Ina’s cooking.

Page 14

60 years

July 9, 2015

‘Only the best come North’

By DARWIN KAMPMAN Kirtland AFB, N.M., This we bought 9 acres of land 10 Minot

My name is Darwin Kampman (MSgt Ret.) aka Sam Kampman. I first came to Minot AFB January 1961 from Homestead AFB, Fla. What a change in the weather, it was minus 35F when I signed in. We came here to work on the B52Hs which didn’t get to MAFB until July. So I worked on them when they were new from the factory. On the 24th of December 1961 I married Elizebeth (Betty) Thorp of Glenburn. We were the first ones to live in the original 77-2 Dundee Dr. We left Minot AFB July 1965 and went to Walker AFB, N.M., where I was crew chief on a B-52E – was there until the base closed in 1967, then went to

was an air weather service Sq. We flew RB-57F aircraft. There were only 15 of this aircraft built. I left Kirtland AFB in December 1969. I went to Vietnam from there, was in the 12 SOS which was the outfit that sprayed Agent Orange. One of the C-123s (Patches) that I worked on there is now in the Air Force Museum. I was sent to Forbes AFB, Kan., when I came back from Vietnam – was there until they closed the base in 1972. I came back to Minot AFB as a FTD, APG instructor, then in February 1975 went to Anderson AFB, Guam, and was there until July 1977. Got orders to Ellsworth AFB, S.D. I retired 1 August 1978. Came back to Minot and

miles east of Minot and built a home. In 1980 I started Civil Service at the base. I started out in transient maintenance, was there until 1986 when it went contract. I then worked in roads and grounds until March 1996. I then went to AFETS and was working on the B-52s again. On 1 April 2002 I retired from Civil Service. All totaled I worked on Minot AFB 30 years. Betty and I still shop for our groceries and get our meds at the base. We still live on the 9 acres where we built our home in 1978. I work part time at Ryan Chevrolet as a courtesy van driver. We attend the West Minot Church of God. Minot is great. Only the best come North.

‘Treasure trove of wonderful memories’ By GREG “LUCKY” ADDISON Olympia, Wash.

My name is Greg Addison. Most people know me as “Lucky.” I recently heard that Minot AFB is celebrating its 60th year. I spent more than seven years stationed there and had some wonderful experiences with some very wonderful people. Shortly after my arrival at Minot, I met some very talented musicians and we started a band called “The Reflections.” I played bass guitar, although our members changed periodically because of military commitments. We were together for about 3 years. We met a wonderful woman named Sandie Karnack (who still resides in Minot) and formed a variety troupe called “Bandwagon” and entertained throughout North Dakota. The base director of Morale, Recreation and Welfare asked me to be the Master of Ceremonies for “Snow Queen,” “Mrs. Minot Air Force Base,” and “Miss Black Heritage” pageants which were held on the base throughout the year. A co-worker on the base told me that a local radio station was looking for a parttime DJ for the weekends and thought I might be interested. I auditioned and worked for Mark Ess at KCJB radio for about

a year. One of the TV reporters there at the time (Dave Ettl) once told me that I might be good on television. A friend who worked in the sales department at KMOT told me the station was looking for a weekend sportscaster for Phil Willman. I auditioned and got the job. Among the great people I worked with were Paul Unwin, Craig Bennell and Mary Muhlbradt. I really loved working there, but was unable to stay more than a year because of military commitment. Sometime later, I met another group of musicians who were looking for a replacement for their guitar player, who had been re-assigned. We entered a base talent show and made it all the way to Air Force Worldwide level. Although we didn’t win 1st place, several of the band members, (Mark Farris-piano, Richard Tennant-trumpet, Richard Jackson-trombone), and I were selected for the Air Force showcase “Tops in Blue.” I left Minot in July, 1981 and was reassigned to McChord Air Force Base in Tacoma, Wash. I am retired from the military now and live in Olympia, Wash. I have a treasure trove of wonderful memories regarding Minot that will last a lifetime. I had some incredible opportunities and met some beautiful people there. Happy 60th Minot! Here’s to many more.

July 9, 2015

Honorary Commanders

60 years - 1955-2015

Page 15

Betty Fedorchak was selected to participate in the Honorary Commanders Program. She continues to participate in the program. For more on this story, see Page 16.

Eloise Ogden/MDN

60 years - 1955-2015

Page 16

July 9, 2015

A Magic Encounter By BETTY FEDORCHAK Minot

My husband, Mike, was given assignment to Minot AFB, N.D. We knew nothing about N o r t h Dakota and immediately started to find out all that we could about the state. It suggested to Fedorchak us that it was going to be very different from anyplace we had ever been. We were in a great place in our life – young, happy and three beautiful children and, of course, our wonderful four-legged friend Winston. We did however have a child with health issues and her doctor thought we may do better in a different climate. After much discussion and coming to the conclusion that North Dakota was where we were headed,

knowing that if anything went wrong we could leave. So North Dakota it was. We went to Ireland and spent time with my family. Then off to Pennsylvania to visit Mike’s family. On a Monday morning two adults, three children, dog and luggage got into a Volvo and headed north. We made it all the way to Minnesota and we hit some very cold weather. (Did I mention it was December?) The car was going fine. All of a sudden we started to have trouble. Mike had to pull over. Within minutes another Volvo pulled over and even with the station wagon packed as it was, this man was smiling and offering help. “I will tow you to Jamestown and once you get some Heet in the gas tank, you will be on your way.” We understood nothing of what he was telling us. Mike got out and he and Mr. Anderson hooked us up and away we went. Mike explained the conversation he and Mr. Anderson had. Not only did

‘I just mentioned a few things about the wonderful life we have had here. That is why we retired here in Minot. We liked what Minot offered us as a family. All three of our children went to universities in North Dakota — Minot, UND and NDSU.’ I learn about “Heet,” I also learned that the gentleman with the big smile and generous offer of help to our family was a retired colonel from Minot Air Force Base. It was a warm fuzzy that our military family was always near and willing to help. We got to the gas station and he made sure we were taken care of and ready to go. We said goodbye and planned to get together in Minot at a later date. He gave us his phone number and told us not to hesitate to call if we needed anything. The fact that our knight in shining armor was from Minot played a part in our outlook toward our new home. We arrived safely and got to our hotel. We went to sleep and woke up in The Magic City.

ing. One could only feel very proud when you understood the responsibility that each unit had and in some small way we were part of all that. Mike and I were invited to join a downtown dart league right away. Thursday night became our night out and the beginning of some great friendships that remain in place to this day. How fortunate we were to have joined such a terrific group. They were business and professional with a touch of Canadian when they happened to visit Minot. We had a blast. For me it was an open invitation to find out as much as I could about Minot and the surrounding area. We found ourselves a great church downtown and with that, more friends. I was already volunteering at the church, MAFB 1977 schools and the library. The Mike went to the base squadron also needed help and reported for duty. He and, of course, I was there was really pleased with his for whatever was needed. place of work and made friends right away. We Making Minot moved into our new home and got settled rather quick- home ly. The base was really big to Now that we had church, us. We had the bomb wing, schools taken care of and missiles, 5th Fighter and really making Minot home, 57th Air Division — over it was time to see what 20.000 personnel. We asked sports were available to get for a tour of the base and the children involved in. We that was really overwhelm- found out there was no soc-

cer in ND. We loved the game and our children had played so we set out to find children on the base that had played before and would be interested in playing now and we would get some teams together. We were taken back by the response. Happy kids, happy parents. Mike was a FIFA ref and could legally train coaches, linesmen and refs. Mike took charge and before you knew it we were well on our way. He held clinics every week and it went great. Then he needed teams outside the base. He was holding clinics in Minot and all the way to Fargo and everywhere in between. We were the traveling soccer family. He brought experts in and accessed the refs he had trained and many people on base and throughout the state got their license. It grew in leaps an bounds and his goal — getting in the schools. Soccer was born in N.D. and Mike was going all over, accessing others and refereeing from Minnesota to Canada and everywhere in between. In the meantime I had joined the Chamber of commerce and military affairs. Before I knew it I had taken on activities for several organizations.

I really enjoyed it. A program started at the Chamber called the Honorary Commanders Program. I was selected for that and remain on that program to this day. It is a wonderful opportunity to shadow a family for the period of time they are stationed here at the base. It is really wonderful getting to know the family, seeing the children grow and when they leave here, you can be sure you will continue that friendship. I have had the opportunity to go to California for a few missile launches. It was important to stay on top of the projects that you were part of and travel was involved in that. Our trips to Washington were always a priority. I just mentioned a few things about the wonderful life we have had here. That is why we retired here in Minot. We liked what Minot offered us as a family. All three of our children went to universities in North Dakota — Minot, UND and NDSU. We all experienced Julebakken, wild game dinners, serving our military at the fair, Military Day at the Høstfest and the list goes on. It is all relevant and brings it together when we say proudly, Team Minot.

July 9, 2015

60 years - 1955-2015

Page 17

Pride in Minot and North Dakota By LeROY ROGELSTAD S/MSgt. (Ret.) Greenbriar, Ark.

My name is LeRoy E. Rogelstad but I have been called Lee for over 60 years. I am a Minot native, Minot High School of 1954. I enlisted in the Air Force in 1954 and Rogelstad was transferred to the 5136th Strategic Wing at Minot AFB in July 1959. Our first duty was to prepare the shops, offices and so forth for the incoming new B-52H and KC-135 aircraft. Two events occurred during my tour there that will remain fresh in my mind forever. First. A lot of people were transferred to Minot in the winter of ’59/’69 from a Florida base. Many of these folks brought mobile homes. Homes that were built in the South for the South. While many of the Florida folks had problems adapting, the mobile home dwellers were overwhelmed. Many Minot civic organizations, churches, clubs and individuals jumped right in, helping in any way to lift these people up. As I recall the Masons organized a group of every type tradesmen required to bring these mobile homes up to the North Dakota challenge — all at no charge. My pride in Minot and North Dakota has never been higher. Second. I was honored to be selected as the electrical tech on the maintenance team that launched the historic B-52H Persian Rug flight from Kadena AFB, Okinawa to Torrejon, Spain, in January 1962.

LeRoy E. Rogelstadʼs Certificate of Lifetime Citizenship – City of Minot – reads it is awarded to him: “for his part in the historic flight of ʻThe Persian Rug,ʼ U.S. Air Force B-52H missile bomber 040, which traveled 12,519 miles nonstop without refueling from Kadena Air Force Base on Okinawa to Torrejon Air Force Base near Madrid, Spain, in 22 hours and 8 minutes on January 10, 1962. “The crew of ʻThe Persian Rugʼ is assigned to the 525th Bomb Squadron of the 4136th Strategic Wing, Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota.”

City of Minot ‘lifetime citizenship’

Among the back pats, we Mayor Harrington, Les each received a City of Maupin and two Minot Minot Certificate of Lifetime Chamber officials. Citizenship signed by The fact that Minot

remains a great place is reflected in the number of AF retirees who elect to stay after retirement.

Here for You Congratulations On 60 Years Thank You For Your Service 1605 35th Ave SW 701-837-7900 www.laquintaminot.com

Page 18

60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

This photo, courtesy of Dan Henes, is of the explosion and fire involving a B-52 in November 1975. Submitted photo

Firefighters honored for their actions Dan Henes, Minot, provided information about a fire and explosion at Minot Air Force Base in 1975. Twenty-three medals for fire heroism were presented to active-duty and civilian firefighters following the incident. The information includes from the base newspaper The Sentry and The Minot Daily News. Twenty-three Minot Air Force Base firefighters were recognized for their actions on Nov.14, 1975, during an emergency caused by a November 1975 explosion and fire on the flightline that took two lives and destroyed a $14 million B52H bomber. Awarded were 17 medals of commendation and seven medals of valor. Presented commendation medals by Brig. Gen. James Light were Tech. Sgts. James Barrett and Larry Puderbauch; Staff Sgts. Lee Bowen, Jollie Brett, Calvin Kornegay, Raymond Lambert and Thomas Wiegand; Senior Airman Tonald Spiegelberg; Airmen 1st Class Michael Bessett, Carl Fredericksen, Craig Krueger,

Lonnie Lauderdale, Roger Nicholson, Randy Schryer, Ronald Williams and Leroy Zink, all firemen at the base. Those now living in the local area include Lambert of Bismarck and Fredrickson of Minot. Those receiving the Strategic Air Command Valor Award for civilians included Phillip Cloud, fire chief at the time, Daniel Abrahamson, Dan Henes, Gary Larson, Malcolm Mcbeth, Anthony Prough and Ronald Thiele. Henes, Prough and Thiele live in Minot; and Larson in Fargo. Mcbethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location is not known. Abrahamson died in 2011. The base fire department immediately responded and began fighting the fire before it could spread to the other aircraft parked nearby. The blast and fire took the lives of two members of a refueling crew, one from Grand Forks, the other a native of Indianapolis. The eight-jet aircraft was being refueled when the disaster occurred.

Team Red, White and Blue

July 9, 2015

60 years - 1955-2015

Page 19

Fond memories of Minot, Minot AFB Lt. Gen. Gregory Biscone, commander of the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot Air F o r c e Base from July 2003 to June 2005, says he has m a n y Biscone f o n d memories of his two years at the Minot base. Leading the pack of his memories of Minot AFB include flying Operation Enduring Freedom with the wing in 2002; Minot bringing bombers back to Guam with the continuous bomber presence mission (spring of 2004); and Minot Mayor Curt

Zimbelman flying in a 5th Bomb Wing B-52 over Minot. Biscone has had a number of assignments since leaving Minot including at headquarters Air Combat Command at Langley AFB, Va.; Whiteman AFB, Mo.; U.S. Central Command at MacDill AFB, Fla.; headquarters U.S. Air Force in Washington, D.C.; and U.S. Strategic Command at Offutt AFB, Neb.; U.S. Embassy in Pakistan. Currently, he is the Inspector General of the Air Force with the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force in Washington, D.C.

Thank You Team Minot for

60 YEARS

of protecting our future as friends, family and community!

Austin Howard of Minot Air Force Base, left, Team RWB Minot chapter captain, started the Team Red, White and Blue Minot chapter in March. Paul Smitko, athletic director of Team RWB Minot, stands next to him. A national organization with the mission to enhance the lives of AmericaĘźs veterans by connecting them to their community through social and physical activity, anyone is welcome to join at no cost. For more on this story, see Page 24. Submitted photo

www.minotchamber.org 1020 20TH AVE SE MINOT, ND 58701 â&#x20AC;˘ 701.852.6000 Paid for by the Minot Area Chamber of Commerce/MVD

60 years - 1955-2015

Page 20

July 9, 2015

Nuclear deterrence mission is top priority When the groundbreaking for Minot Air Force Base occurred in July 1955, American technology presented a vast array of possibilities. The assignment of state-of-the-art jet aircraft and the intercontinental ballistic missile complex undeniably demonstrated the importance the Department of Defense placed on Minot AFB, its Airmen, and the community. The Air Force activated the 450th Bombardment Wing and 455th Strategic Missile Wing (the predecessors of Minot’s 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Missile Wing) to provide national leaders combat-ready forces capable of strategic deterrence and global strike options during the height of the Cold War. As we mark the 60th Anniversary of the groundbreaking, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight how Team Minot

plex international geopolitical environment. The President has DEBORAH charged our nuclear forces LEE to provide and maintain a JAMES safe, secure, and credible arsenal to achieve deterrence and assurance effects as long as nuclear weapons Secretary exist. Capabilities to of the Air Force achieve deterrence and assurance are foundational elements of our national continues to provide these security. We rightly placed options today and for these responsibilities with tomorrow. Team Minot. The nuclear deterrence Minot Air Force Base is mission is the top priority the only military installabecause nuclear capable tion in America operating adversaries pose the only two of the three legs of existential threat to the United States today. In the America’s nuclear triad. Our trust in Minot solidipast, very few actors possessed disruptive technolo- fied even further with the 91st Missile Wing and 5th gies or extremely destructive weapons. Today, many Bomb Wing earning the U.S. Strategic Command’s hold these weapons, and those that do not, have the Omaha Trophy; designating them the premier interconpotential to develop or obtain them. Thus, the abil- tinental ballistic missile and ity to meet the challenges of strategic aircraft operations wings. today and tomorrow is Looking to the future, I imperative in today’s com-

anticipate nothing but excellence from Team Minot. Persistent focus and dedicated leadership are the keys to success for the nuclear enterprise and we are on the right course. Recent efforts within the Air Force and Department of Defense have demonstrated our commitment to keeping the nuclear mission a top priority into the future. The AFGSC Force Improvement Program (FIP), which began in 2014, ensures that the Airmen who are executing the mission are able to elevate ideas to improve how the Air Force conducts this special mission. FIP initiatives brought renewed vigor to the nuclear mission. Balancing the readiness of today with the modernization needed for the future, we look to significant investments in the Air Force’s two legs of the nuclear triad. Investing in the development of

M INOT A IR F ORCE BASE

Some important dates for Minot Air Force Base: ® October 1954: Air Force officials from Washington and Air Defense Command, Colorado Springs, Colo., arrive to launch engineering survey for new $7 million air base at Minot. ® July 12, 1955: Official groundbreaking ceremony held for Minot AFB. ® Nov. 1, 1955: First portions of land for Minot AFB were purchased. ® September 1956: The new air base already has some of the basics completed or being constructed including dormitories, mess hall, hangars, NCO Club, chapel, gym-

nasium, heating plant, and six-story control operations tower, concrete parking aprons, taxi strips and mammoth runway being enlarged from 8,100 to 13,200 feet length. ® Feb. 7, 1957: First Minot AFB unit, 32rd Fighter Group, activated. ® Feb. 15, 1957: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers turns over the “key” of the base to Maj. Joe Roberts, the first base commander. ® May 17, 1959: Minot AFB holds its first open house. Armed Forces Day open house held as part of a two-day observance “Power for Peace” on Armed Forces Day with

Minot & the south radar site. Base open house drew 25,000-30,000 visitors. ® September 1958: U2 “spy planes” arrive for nearly two-year assignment Operation Crowflight. ® Sept. 23, 1959: First tanker, a Boeing KC-135, arrives. ® May 21, 1960: Base holds second open house. ® Feb. 4, 1960: First F106 Delta Dart arrives. ® October 1960: First housing units opened. ® July 16,1961: First B52H bomber, named “Peace Persuader,” arrives, with Maj. Clyde P. Evely as its commander

replacement systems such as the Long-Range Strike Bomber, the long-range stand-off weapon, the Ground-Base Strategic Deterrent and accompanying infrastructure are imperative to our modernization efforts. Modernization is vital ensuring we have a safe, secure, and effective nuclear enterprise for decades to come. While we focus on the mission at hand and the resources required for the mission, the Airmen that execute the mission are the critical piece of the equation. There is no question: The strength of our Air Force is our people. People are what make us the greatest Air Force on the planet. The Airmen of the nuclear force have shown exceptional resiliency, on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year securing the homeland and reassur-

TIMELINE

for the flight. N.D. Gov. William Guy and Col. Harold A. Radetsky, commander, 4136th Strategic Wing at Minot AFB, accompanied the crew on the flight to Minot from Rapid City, S.D. Plane arrived at base on same day as base open house named “Peace Persuader Day” when plane also christened “Peace Persuader” A second plane (Tail No. 60-0025) was the backup plane in case the “Peace Persuader” could not land. It also landed at Minot AFB that day but the “Peace Persuader” officially considered the 1st B-52 to arrive at base.

“Peace Persuader,” tail No. 60-0027 crashed Oct. 4, 1968, while assigned to the baseʼs 23rd Bomb Squadron. Crash occurred eight miles south of Minot AFB runway, with one survivor. ® June 1962: Last BUFF off the assembly

ing our allies and partners. They could not do this without the support of the Minot community and the state of North Dakota. The success of both the bomber and ICBM missions is possible only because of the tremendous support provided by the surrounding communities. From raising the first $50,000 and providing the land that would become Minot Air Force base, to the unending support you show our Airmen on a daily basis, the Minot community is an invaluable Air Force partner. To all who have welcomed Airmen and given them a home away from home – I offer my heartfelt thanks. As we look forward, I know our nuclear mission is in good hands with our Airmen, and our Airmen are in good hands with the Minot Community. Only the Best come North!

line 61-0040. Accepted into Air Force inventory in fall ʼ62. Plane currently at Minot AFB, as of 2012. ® Operation Persian Rug in 1962 - B-52 flight halfway around the world. ® Jan. 12, 1962: See TIME — Page 23

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60 years - 1955-2015

Page 22

July 9, 2015

Minot AFB plays important role in nation’s defense Nestled in the quiet farmlands of North Dakota, lies an Air Force base tasked with the responsibility for the nation’s most powerful weapons. Since its establishment in 1955, the Minot community has been, and still is, one of the base’s largest supporters. The local community donated the money to purchase the first portion of land that became Minot Air Force Base. As the only military base holding the distinction of supporting two components of the U.S. nuclear triad, Minot Air Force Base plays a critical role in the defense of our nation. It began as an Air Defense Command base protecting the U.S. throughout the Cold War, and has

LT. GEN. STEPHEN WILSON

Commander, Air Force Global Strike Command since developed into a key component of our nation’s defense. Today, the Minot community continues its support through local community leadership groups like Task Force 21. The Airmen of Air Force Global Strike Command owe a great deal of thanks to the Minot community, who

understand and appreciate the important role their base plays in the nation’s defense. Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III have repeatedly declared nuclear deterrence as the Air Force’s number one mission. As Minot Air Force Base celebrates 60 years since the groundbreaking of the base, our commitment to the defense of our nation is as strong today as it was then. We will continue to build on the historic role Minot contributes to our nation’s deterrence mission. Due to the challenges of operating in a remote and austere

environment it is critical we continue to invest in proper training for our Airmen with new and improved facilities. We are improving manning levels at the base and working to ensure better access to health care for military members while making strides toward addressing aging facilities and infrastructure there. Minot Air Force Base is incredibly unique since it is the only U.S. base currently performing both the intercontinental ballistic missiles and strategic bomber missions. The Airmen who execute this vital mission are some of the most skillfully trained and educated in our Air Force, and they hold the special trust and

responsibility that comes with performing the nuclear mission. These Airmen provide the President and our nation with ready and reliable nuclear forces. Maintaining the credibility of our nuclear deterrent requires a long-term commitment to sustainment, modernization and recapitalization. Currently, the Air Force is modernizing the Minuteman system to ensure the reliability, survivability, and efficacy of these weapons through the year 2030. Air Force Global Strike Command is continuing to define requirements, assess concepts, and identify characteristics for a follow-on system to ensure

a viable Ground Based Strategic Deterrent well into the future. Alongside the intercontinental ballistic missiles forces, the B-52 Stratofortress bombers located at Minot Air Force Base are past the half-century mark, yet this venerable aircraft still has plenty of years left to fly. The Air Force plans to keep this aircraft flying for the next 25 years. We are investing in multiple improvements to ensure its continued readiness. I want to wish Minot Air Force Base and its surrounding community a happy 60th anniversary. We continue to see a bright future for this very important base!

Team Red, White and Blue Relay for Life team

Team Red, White and Blue Minot had around 20 members participate in Relay for Life 2015. For more on this story, see Page 24. Submitted photo

60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

Page 23

‘Our objective remains: to keep Americans and our allies safe and secure’ In July of 1955, the United States Air Force was less than eight years old. The average age of a USAF aircraft was less than 10 years old and the USAF Air Force Academy opened its doors for business at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, CO. Dwight Eisenhower was elected as our nation’s 34th President, Rosa Parks refused to sit in the back of the bus in Montgomery, AL., and America was introduced to the Golden Arches. In the wake of World War II, tensions spread and deepened between the U.S.S.R. and the U.S. and an arms race was about to begin in earnest. A public fear of a surprise attack by the Soviets was becoming prevalent; Pearl Harbor still echoed in recent memory. Increasing strategic capabilities and aggressiveness within the Soviet military forced the U.S. to rethink its defensive posture. U.S. war planners and the Air Force embarked on a study to determine optimum sites near the Canadian border to locate defensive installations. The result of extensive surveying and deliberate planning led to the rapid construction of Air Force bases in the northern tier. The Air Force selected Minot, along with Grand Forks, ND, and Glasgow,

Time

Continued from Page 20

COL. JASON R. ARMAGOST

Commander, 5th Bomb Wing

MT., as the most effective locations for Air Defense Command installations. These bases would house fighter interceptor squadrons and serve as sites for semiautomatic ground environment direction centers for air defense sectors. As organizational structures evolved, all three became Strategic Air Command bases. The 60th anniversary of the groundbreaking for Minot Air Force Base takes place July 12. Though much has happened in the decades since 1955, today, the base remains strategically critical while supporting two legs of our Nation’s triad. It is essential to recognize that Minot Air Force Base might never have come into existence had it not been for the initiative and foresight of the leading citizens of Minot. In 1955, local businessmen and residents of Minot and the surrounding area donated $50,000 in private funds to buy land for what was to

Construction starts on new Minuteman I Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) complex. ® July 1, 1962: Control of base transferred from Air Defense Command to Strategic Air Command. ® Sept. 9, 1963: First missile placed in silo. ® April 1964: All missiles in place

become Minot Air Force Base. Construction of Minot AFB began in May 1956 and the base’s first full-time employees began arriving in January 1957. Initially, construction activities at the base were focused in anticipation of the assignment of ADC fighters. An ADC unit, the 32d Fighter Group, with the 5th Fighter Interceptor Squadron, subsequently activated in February 1957 and assumed operational control of the base. By 1961, the first B-52 Stratofortress had arrived and the USAF had selected numerous sites near the base to begin construction of a Minuteman I Intercontinental Ballistic Missile complex. In 1962, technology rendered the direction center obsolete and the base transferred to control of SAC. As technology advanced, so did the mission and equipment at Minot AFB. By 1971, the 91st Strategic Missile Wing traded Minuteman I for the Minuteman III and the 5th Bombardment Wing fielded the Short Range Attack Missile to replace the Hound Dog. The 5th Fighter Interceptor Squadron’s air defense mission ended in 1988 eliminating more than 500 personnel from the

and ready to go, if needed. ® November 1970, Thanksgiving Day, First Thanksgiving Day dinner for local senior citizens held at Minot AFB. Program started with idea by Col. Grover Graves Jr., then commander of the 91st Strategic Missile Wing, later 91st Space Command. He called Claude “Bud” Ebert, longtime chief of recreation at base, to make it possible. Later it became the “Thanksgiving Day of Love.” ® December 1970: The 741st

base and fighters left the skies over Minot. Late in the 1980s, base closures across the country began to accelerate. The citizens of Minot and Northern ND successfully organized and petitioned the government to keep the base open. The 1991 collapse of communism in the Soviet Union resulted in the B-52 fleet being ordered permanently off alert for the first time in nearly three decades. In 1992, the base transitioned from Strategic Air Command to Air Combat Command and Minot AFB’s KC-135 mission concluded. Events in the Middle East brought the demand for the 5th Bomb Wing’s B-52 airpower to Iraq. Later in the decade, atrocities in Kosovo would return the 5 BW to combat once again. 9/11 focused the wing’s combat power yet again; aircraft and personnel deployed to Southwest Asia to conduct strikes against Taliban targets in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2003, B-52s struck numerous Iraqi targets during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Since then, Minot’s military and civilian Airmen have continually deployed around the world with a particular focus on supporting United States Pacific Command’s

Strategic Missile Squadron became the first operational Minuteman III squadron. ® July 1973: Base pays special tribute to the late A.R. Weinhandl, often known as the “Father of Minot AFB.” Weinhandl spearheaded the local efforts to induce the Defense Department to locate an Air Force base at Minot and led the welcoming party to make Minotʼs military neighbors feel welcomed to the See TIME — Page 27

Continuous Bomber Presence mission since 2004. Through all of this, the 91st Missile Wing has stood alert over-watch for us all as they constantly deploy throughout the prairies of North Dakota. As a fixture of North Dakota for 60 years, Minot AFB continues to partner with local citizens. During all these decades, many farmers have planted and harvested their crops neighborly distances from missile sites and the base itself. Activity in the Bakken has added new challenges and opportunities. Throughout our shared history, aircraft have come and gone and organizations have been named and renamed. Technology has improved and buildings have been erected and torn down. USAF priorities have changed and adapted to the demands of our civilian leaders proving out the old Air Force adage that “flexibility is the key to airpower.” But one thing has

remained constant: our will and ability to deter all potential enemies and adversaries through an overwhelming combat presence. Our objective remains: to keep Americans and our allies safe and secure. The words above our gate read: “Only the Best Come North.” For Minot’s former and current Airmen, family members, civilian employees, retirees and contractors, the pride in our ability to protect North America couldn’t be more succinctly stated. It’s important, however, to remember that Team Minot is bigger than the base and the dispersed sites of the missile complex. Team Minot is all of us. We are delighted to serve in a community that joins with us in unique, supportive, and patriotic ways to strengthen us all for our 24/7/365 missions. The 5th Bomb Wing and the 91st Missile Wing owe you a debt of gratitude. Thank you Team Minot.

Page 24

60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

Cornerstone of deterrence: Minot Air Force Base yesterday, today and tomorrow Thank you! The people of Minot are inextricably linked to the cornerstone of COL. our nation’s nuclear deterMICHAEL rence — Minot Air Force LUTTON Base. The unwavering support of the local community buoyed the first Airmen and their families who arrived Commander, 91st and called Minot home. Missile Wing Today, the community support remains a crucial part Over the many decades of every Airman and their of our deterrent mission, the families experience as we Airmen and the base adaptcontinue to serve our nation. ed to the challenges facing

CHIEF MASTER SGT. FELICA NOIL

Command Chief, 91st Missile Wing

our nation with unparalleled integrity, service and excellence. From the initial fielding of our interconti-

nental ballistic missile force to today’s projected force modernization, Airmen execute the nation’s deterrent mission with the underlying guarantee of a safe, secure and effective deterrent force. Today, our Airmen face a future full of opportunities for professional and personal growth. The nuclear force improvement program reset the operating conditions of our force and the nuclear

force improvement program really transformed into an operating philosophy. The operating philosophy focuses on leading, teaching, mentoring and developing Airmen to deliver results for our nation today while preparing for the ever expanding challenges of tomorrow. As the future unfolds, the “Rough Riders” of the 91st Missile Wing will continue to lead, integrate and

demonstrate excellence across our nuclear enterprise whatever the challenge. We are unbelievably proud of our heritage of excellence and remain actively engaged in shaping our future while always defending the United States with combat ready nuclear forces. With sincere thanks for your continued support and service — Bully, Rough Riders!

Team Red, White and Blue takes off in Minot By MARISSA HOWARD

enrich the lives of veterans in so many ways,” said Howard, Team Staff Writer mhoward@minotdailynews.com RWB Minot chapter captain. “There are no membership dues MINOT AIR FORCE BASE — and no meetings. We just want to Red, white and blue are colors connect veterans back to their that, separately, do not mean community and give them that much, but together, mean more same camaraderie they had when than we can express. They mean they served in the military.” Team RWB Minot, currently a patriotism and unity, sacrifice and selflessness. They mean inno- field team that is part of the Team cence, hardiness and valor in the RWB Bismarck chapter, now has face of battle and anything that around 350 members and is growthreatens to take the colors away. ing fast. The organization hosts They mean vigilance, persever- local opportunities for veterans, ance and justice for a country that active duty members and the overcomes beyond all doubts. community such as weekly fitAnd in this case, the colors also ness activities, monthly social mean a team of people who strive events and participation in local to make a difference in the name fundraisers and events. As the Team RWB Minot field team conof the U.S.A. Team Red, White and Blue tinues to grow in members and (RWB), a national organization of events, it will eventually become over 55,000 members with a mis- its own chapter. Paul Smitko, athletic director sion to enhance the lives of America’s veterans by connecting for Team RWB Minot, joined the them to their community through organization because of his love social and physical activity, for sports and the community. “Ever since I was a kid, I loved became a part of the Minot community and Minot Air Force Base sports, loved being around on March 17 of this year. Austin sports,” Smitko said. “I coach my Howard, an active-duty member little boys and being a part of at Minot Air Force Base, began the Team RWB, you give back to the Team RWB chapter in Minot community. It’s a really good outwhen he realized the valuable reach for adults and even kids to benefits an organization like this come together and enjoy each would bring to the members of the other.” Minot community. One of the primary missions of “I wanted to bring Team RWB Team RWB is bringing veterans to Minot because of a need for an back into the family atmosphere organization here that would and camaraderie of the military

that they often lose when they retire from it. Of the around one million service members who will retire or separate from the military over the next five years, 58 percent of them do not return to their hometown, according to the national Team RWB website. Further, the U.A. Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that there are nearly 400,000 untreated cases of post-traumatic stress disorder and a 2009 Rand report estimates that 26 percent of returning combat veterans may have mental health conditions such as PTSD, anxiety or depression. So what has been proven to be the non-drug equivalent of SSRI drug therapies or psychotherapy

for depression and anxiety? Exercise. And 41 percent of veterans stated that they are more likely to exercise if they can do it with a group or team. Team RWB is the only veteran-support nongovernmental organization that focuses on consistent exercise events as the vehicle to improve social connectivity and reintegration. “Exercise is so important, and we love being able to bring it back into the lives of veterans and not only that, but to work out by their side,” said Howard. “These men and women are incredible people and we can learn so much from them.” Team RWB has hosted physical activities such as several 5Ks, interval training classes, paintball, bowling and more. They also participate in fundraisers such as Relay for Life, and their dedication to these events is unparalleled. Around 20 Team RWB Minot members began the 12-hour walk at 7 p.m. June 19, making sure the American flag was in the hand of one of the members that was walking at all times. Though the crowd grew thinner as the night went on, Team Red, White and Blue could still be seen sprinkled around the track with the flag held high. Team RWB Minot holds at least five athletic events and two

social events each month, a goal that keeps the zeal — and friendships — strong. The team recently fostered a relationship with local yoga business YogifyU and added yoga to their monthly physical activities, a step that Howard is excited about. And, Howard said, the team is always looking for new members to join. “Anyone interested in supporting our military and connecting with veterans can be a part of Team RWB. We have civilians and even kids that come to these events repping the RWB T-shirt,” said Howard. “We would love to have you join.” To be a part of Team RWB, email your name and zipcode to austin.howard@teamrwb.org. Free Nike dri-FIT T-shirts, red with the signature Team RWB eagle, are mailed to any activeduty military and veterans just for joining the team. The shirts are available online for any non-military personnel to purchase at teamrwb.org. When the colors red, white and blue are paired up as one, they make the eminent symbol and flag of our nation. When people team up as one in Team Red, White and Blue, they make a difference in the lives of veterans and beyond. Both bear the nation’s colors and both represent a country that, to them, is like nothing else.

60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

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Minot’s enduring mission Teddy Roosevelt once said that if he never had lived in North Dakota he never would have become President of the United States. The leadership skills he honed and the relationships he forged during his brief stint as a free range rancher there equipped him well for the challenges he faced — and overcame — later in his life’s remarkable journey. Successive generations of Air Force members, and their families, have similarly been deeply and positively influenced by their time in North Dakota. I consider myself very fortunate to have served in the state on three separate occasions, the last time as commander of the 91st Missile Wing Rough Riders. My military career and my family came of age in Grand Forks and Minot. The shared sense of purpose, the warm and welcoming communities both on and off base, the successful accomplishment of mission in the face of adverse weather — all these combine to make serving in North Dakota a unique and special experience. If it is true that “Only the Best Come North,” it is even more true that our Airmen are better by the time they ultimately depart for other assignments. Minot Air Force Base itself was born in the midst of the Cold War. At the time, the United States and its allies had squared off against the Soviet Union in a titanic struggle between diametrically opposed concepts of the individual citizen’s role in the political, economic and even cultural life of the nation. In addition to being a

Lt. Gen. FRANK G. KLOTZ, USAF (Ret.)

Under Secretary for Nuclear Security and National Nuclear Security Administration administrator conflict of ideas, the Cold War also had a huge military dimension. Each side fielded large military forces, including nuclear weapons, to deter and, if necessary, defend against an attack by the other. Minot was an ideal spot for stationing the Air Force’s long-range, nuclearcapable bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Because of its northernmost location, the base was closer to potential targets just over the pole in the Soviet Union than from practically anywhere else in the lower 48 states. Over its 60 years, Minot Air Force Base has been home to the B-52 bomber, the Minuteman ICBM, refueling aircraft, regional defense jet fighters, rescue helicopters, and the thousands of Air Force members and contractors required to operate, maintain, secure and support these systems. The Cold War ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. In the years that followed, the United States dramatically reduced the size and scope of its military, including its nuclear deterrence forces. When I first entered missile

operations in the early 1980s, the Air Force had 1,054 ICBMs of three different types located at nine operational bases. Today, we have 450 Minuteman III missiles at three operational bases. During the same period, the number of longrange bombers similarly dwindled from more than 300 to only about 70 still in active service. The size of our nuclear weapons stockpile also decreased dramatically. At its highest point in 1967, the American nuclear arsenal consisted of over 31,000 weapons. Since then, it has been reduced by 85 percent and today numbers about 4,700 weapons. As Secretary of State John Kerry recently reported, during the last 20 years alone, the United States has dismantled 10,251 warheads, with another approximately 2,500 warheads retired and in the queue for elimination. Anyone who argues that we have not adjusted to the end of Cold War is simply disregarding the math. Even though the Cold War is over, the world is still a dangerous and complex place. For now and for the foreseeable future, nuclear deterrence remains an important element of our overall national security strategy. No threat poses as grave a danger to our security and well-being as the potential use of nuclear weapons and materials by irresponsible states or terrorists. Thus, as long as nuclear weapons exist, the United States must invest the resources necessary to maintain — without testing — a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent that preserves strategic stability

ties of the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration. Thus, 60 years after the creation of the base, Minot remains at the forefront in providing for our national security, both in terms of articulating the rationale for a strong defense, as well as members of Task Force 21 extending world-class suphave become nationally-rec- port to the bombers and ognized, highly articulate missiles, as well as the champions for maintaining Airmen and families and modernizing America’s deployed here. Given the nuclear security enterprise. increasingly uncertain That includes not only the world in which we live, military aircraft, suband the continuing need for marines and missiles that nuclear deterrent forces, comprise the so-called Minot’s unique and impor“Triad”; it also includes the tant mission is likely to national security laboratoendure for many years to ries and production facilicome.

Over its 60 years, Minot Air Force Base has been home to the B-52 bomber, the Minuteman ICBM, refueling aircraft, regional defense jet fighters, rescue helicopters, and the thousands of Air Force members and contractors required to operate, maintain, secure and support these systems. and deters attacks upon the United States and its allies. And, we must also give the highest priority to keeping nuclear materials out of the hands of terrorists and preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons. The citizens of Minot understand the enduring importance of maintaining a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrence. The

60 years - 1955-2015

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July 9, 2015

North Dakota proud to be home to Minot AFB This year marks a special milestone in the history of Minot Air Force Base, the 60th anniversary of the base’s ground breaking. Several Minot businessmen and citizens donated approximately $50,000 to buy the first portions of land for the base and ground was broken on the first buildings in July 1955. Since then, Minot Air Force Base has become an economic engine for our state and a powerful force in our nation’s military. Minot AFB has a strong,

JACK DALRYMPLE

Governor of North Dakota

proud history of defending our homeland and preserving peace around the globe. Over the past six decades, the base has been tasked with many important missions and has played an integral role in pivotal mili-

tary operations that have defined the course of our nation and our world. North Dakota is proud to be home to Minot AFB and grateful for the strong partnership that has existed between the U.S. Air Force and our state over the past 60 years. The base is an important contributor to the economic growth and strength of Minot and the surrounding area and has been a key factor in the region’s prosperity. The base’s workforce of more than 6,000 military members and civilian

employees makes the installation one of the largest single employers in North Dakota. Since its establishment, Minot AFB has brought jobs, revenue and economic opportunities to the region and the state. In 2014, the base’s payroll exceeded $350 million and its overall economic impact was more than $575 million. Over the years, those contributions have had a significant impact on the local and statewide economies and on the quality of life for generations of North

Air Force Association

Dakotans. Since its first ground breaking 60 years ago, Minot AFB has been on the forefront of strategic operations and technological advances. When this country needed a tactical response to an emerging threat or a unit to be the first tasked with a new mission, Minot AFB was called on to fulfill those needs. No doubt, as the base embarks on another 60 years of service, it will continue to be a leader in the U.S. Air Force and a central part of our nation’s

military operations. Congratulations to the Air Force, Minot AFB and the community of Minot as you celebrate this historic occasion and mark six decades of outstanding military and economic contributions to our state and nation. We look forward to a continued strong partnership between the base and our state, and to another 60 years of Minot AFB calling North Dakota home. Because we all know that only the best come north. Best wishes for another 60 years!

Representatives of the David C. Jones Chapter of the Air Force Association are shown in this photo taken earlier this year at Minot Air Force Base. The photo includes Sen. Heidi Heitkamp, D-N.D., fourth from right, and Leo Makelky, Minot, back, fifth from right. Makelky was the first secretary of the Minot AFA and than served as president. A staunch supporter of the Air Force, Minot AFA was organized nearly 44 years ago. Submitted photo

60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

Page 27

Minot AFB has a proud past and a bright future Nuclear Force Improvement Program is important investment in MAFB In a few days, we’ll celebrate the 60th anniversary of Minot Air Force Base, and on this occasion, we can not only review the base’s proud past, but also its bright future. Minot Air Force Base holds a special place in the history of North Dakota. The groundbreaking for the base took place in 1955 and the first unit, the 32nd Fighter Group, was activated in 1957. Throughout the decades, the base grew in size and importance. By the early 1990s, however, the future of the base was at risk in one of the first Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) rounds. As chairman of Minot’s Task Force 96 until 1993, I saw firsthand the important role

Time

Continued from Page 23

area. ® January 1975: 57th Air Division reactivated, units at Minot AFB and Grand Forks AFB. Officer of general rank to lead command – Brig. Gen. George D. Miller. ® May 14, 1976: Minot AFB pays tribute with major ceremonies on base to Raymond C. Dobson, publisher and president of The Minot Daily News, for his many years of building relationships between the Minot community and Minot AFB. ® Mid-1980s: The 5th Fighter Interceptor Squadron converted from the F-106 to F-15. Squadron deactivated in 1988. ® 1988: Minot AFB

Missile Wing. For that reason, it’s important not only to maintain, but to improve JOHN the base for the future. HOEVEN Over the past four years, we have worked to secure more than $181 million in construction funding for U.S. Senator, R-N.D. the base. This includes a new control tower and base the base plays in our operations facility, new dornation’s defenses and mitories, maintenance facilworked with the group to ities, weapons storage faciliavert a closure. Later, as ties, and a new runway to governor, I worked to make keep the base in top form. sure North Dakota got a fair We also introduced a deal in the 2005 BRAC provision in the round. Department of Defense Minot Air Force Base is Appropriations bill last year unique. Among the nation’s to make sure that all of our military bases, it is the only missile silos are kept in a one with a dual nuclear warm state. Keeping these mission, including two legs silos active is important of the nuclear triad, the 5th because they enable us to Bomb Wing and 91st move the missiles around,

strengthening our nuclear defenses. Similarly, we have worked to include provisions in this year’s defense appropriations bill that will keep Minot and the nation’s other Air Force bases on the cutting edge. That begins with the Nuclear Force Improvement Program (NFIP), which is designed to update the nation’s nuclear triad and take care of the men and women who perform the nuclear mission. This year’s appropriations bill includes more than $130 million for the NFIP and directs the Air Force to report back to Congress on how this investment is improving nuclear readiness. The legislation also

includes language I inserted that directs the Department of Defense to maintain U.S. nuclear forces at the levels agreed to in the New START Treaty, rather than reduce them, as the administration has proposed. To help Minot and other bases stay on the cutting edge, the appropriations bill also provides $75 million to begin development of the next generation intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), which will replace the current Minuteman III. Also included is $145 million to modernize the B-52, Minot’s bomber mission. Separately, we are working to include an amendment to a second bill, the National Defense Authorization Act, that will

help keep the Nuclear Force Improvement Program going in the future. Our measure affirms that the NFIP has made important improvements for the ICBM and nuclear bomber missions and that the nuclear mission should remain one of our highest national security priorities. Minot Air Force Base has been an important part of our nation’s defenses for 60 years, adapting to changing times, changing technologies and a changing world. Today, the pace of those changes is even more rapid, but I am confident Minot Air Force Base will continue to help provide our country with an effective and dependable defense well into the future.

Award. ® Summer 1993: 91st Missile Wing reassigned to Air Force Space Command. ® January 1994: Base loses 906th Air Refueling Squadron, one of baseʼs oldest units; last KC-135 tanker leaves three months later. ® August 1996: Missile wing completes first major upgrade on command, control and communication systems at launch and control centers. ® Oct. 1, 1997: 91st Missile Wing redesignated 91st Space Wing. ® Since 9/11 (2001), troops from Minot Air Force Base have been deployed in support of the war on terrorism. ® July 2008: 91st Space Wing renamed 91st Missile Wing. ® Oct. 18, 2008: North Dakota Air National

Guardʼs 219th Security Forces Squadron was activated whose mission is to support missile security for the 91st Missile Wing. ® Dec. 1, 2009: 91st Missile Wing officially transferred from Air Force Space Command to Air Force Global Strike Command, the Air Forceʼs newest major command to focus on the nationʼs nuclear enterprise. Lt. Gen. Frank Klotz, a former commander of Minotʼs 91st Missile Group/91st Missile Wing, is the first commander of AFGSC. ® Feb. 1, 2010: 5th Bomb Wing transfers from Air Combat Command to Air Force Global Strike Command. ® Summer 2011: Major flooding in the city of Minot impacted nearly 1,200 Minot AFB personnel and family members. The 5th

Bomb Wing provided personnel and equipment via the Stafford Act to assist the city in levee construction and evacuation efforts. ® Dec. 2, 2011: The newest 5th Bomb Wing unit, the 705th Munitions

Squadron, activated, replacing the 17th Munitions Squadron, an Air Force Materiel Command Unit. ® July 12, 2015: 60th anniversary of the groundbreaking for Minot Air Force Base.

selected for Commanderin-Chiefʼs Installation Excellence Award. ® October 1989: AirLaunched Cruise Missile added to 5th Bomb Wingʼs arsenal; 1993, bomb wing gets Advanced Cruise Missiles for B-52. ® Early 1990s: Aircraft and personnel deployed for Operation Desert Storm. ® June 1991: 57th Air Division inactivated; 5th Bomb Wing now host base unit. ® September 1991: After 35 years continuous alert, bomb wing aircraft came off alert status. ® June 1992: New Air Combat Command replaces Strategic Air Command as host command. ® Early 1994: Minot AFB receives Air Combat Command Commanderʼs Community Support

You Are Welcome Congratulations, On 60 Years. Thank You For Your Service 1609 35th Ave SW 701-837-1700 www.baymontinns.com

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July 9, 2015

Minot Air Force Base: A tradition of service A big part of what makes North Dakota so special is the commitment to service that we see every day in the lives of countless folks all across our state. North Dakotans volunteer their time at local homeless and domestic violence shelters to make sure everyone has a safe place to spend a night. We prepare plenty of hotdish for neighbors when they’re going through difficult times. And in Minot, North Dakotans proudly give back by serving our country at Minot Air Force Base, where thousands of airmen and women, as well as civilian employees, help keep our state and nation safe. For decades, these patriots have gone to work every morning with a true sense of purpose, knowing their daily work plays a critical role in protecting our national security. With

Early

HEIDI HEITKAMP

U.S. Senator, D-N.D.

North Dakota as the only state to host two legs of the nuclear triad — Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) and B-52 bombers, both located at Minot Air Force Base — the Minot community has been on the leading edge of nuclear deterrence missions. And as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the groundbreaking of the base, we have an opportunity to reflect upon its value to our country and the importance of supporting the missions and employees of the base for generations into the future.

Continued from Page 3

was the first base commander. (Brenden also recalls the first commander of the missile wing — then the 455th Strategic Missile Wing — was born in Wahpeton. Col. Gilbert F. Friederichs was the wing commander. Brenden was involved in many projects over the years he worked with the civil engineer unit at the base. The Division and its units at Minot and Grand Forks were transferred from the 15th Air Force to the Second Air Force July 1, 1963. When the base was under Second Air Force, he recalled Isaacson got a call that 200 trees were going to be shipped to Minot in winter. “Of course, they plant trees in the South anytime of the year. I can remember him (Isaacson) talking to them. They wanted to ship us a bunch of trees.. We couldn’t take them because it was dead winter.” Others who worked in the Civil Engineer unit at the base in early years

We all know that the United States faces very real threats from terrorist groups and state actors alike, which is why it is so essential that our nation continues to have the strongest military in the world. As the military works to address the wide range of threats, bolstering support for a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent must rank among our highest priorities. And Team Minot — the men and women of the 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Missile Wing, as well as the base’s civilian personnel — stands at the forefront of that effort. To support Minot Air Force Base, I’ve been working with top leaders to make sure the Air Force recognizes the value of the base and its mission, and have led efforts to improve resources for servicemembers and civilians working

included Harold Stroklund who was in charge of all the shops; John Fahn, who was in charge of the electrical shops; Leroy “Lee” Aftem, who was in charge of real estate for the department Brenden was in; and Matt Klein, who became deputy base engineer. All are of Minot. “I worked with John Sinn a lot. He was with the (U.S. Army Corps) of Engineers,” Brenden said. Numerous women also worked at the base, some remaining in their jobs there for many years, including Brenden’s sister-in-law Dorothy Brandt of Minot. When he retired from civil service at Minot AFB, Brenden then worked for an Omaha-based private engineering firm as the project engineer on the B-1B support facilities at Grand Forks AFB for a year. He then worked for the state of North Dakota for five years. When he went to work for the state’s Division of Emergency Management, he said they were interested in nuclear attacks at that time. That was in 1988. “I was the fallout shelter and tornado shelter building evaluator for them,” he said.

on the base. Over the past year, I’ve pressed top Air Force officials to protect the longterm viability of the ICBM and B-52 missions by investing in the base’s missile and bomber forces. Other members of the Senate ICBM Coalition and I also successfully convinced the U.S. Department of Defense to back off a plan that could have potentially reduced the number of ICBM silos across the country — including those at Minot Air Force Base. Last fall, I joined thenSecretary of Defense Chuck Hagel and Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James at the base, where Secretary Hagel committed to investing billions of dollars to maintain and modernize our nation’s nuclear forces — a significant sign of support for Minot Air Force Base from the

After that, Brenden went to work for FEMA, the agency he works with today. When he retired from his work at Minot AFB, Brenden told the base newspaper, The Sentry, his retirement party was a highlight of his career. “I was presented an American flag that had been flown over Minot AFB in a B52, a KC-135, an F-15 and a helicopter. That was pretty neat,” he said. “Since I was 22 years old the Air Force has been my way of life. I feel real fortunate to have had the opportunity to serve with the Air Force. It has been good to me and my family and I owe it a lot,” he told the base newspaper. Brenden told the base newspaper that every time he drives by Minot AFB he thinks about Maurice “Ike” Isaacson, his boss and the base’s first engineer. “He always loved trees and because of him the landscaping out there is super,” Brenden said at Isaacson’s retirement event. “He (Isaacson) deserves a lot of credit for getting trees out there. We planted a lot of trees,” Brenden added, in an interview with The Minot Daily News.

Administration. And in May, I introduced a bipartisan bill with Republican Senator Mike Rounds from South Dakota that would support the B-52 bomber force by making sure longrange strike bombers aren’t retired prematurely. But the most important part of the work at Minot Air Force Base isn’t the missiles in the silos or the bomber aircraft on the runway — it’s the selfless folks who go to work there every day and enable these missions to succeed. After I brought U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director Katherine Archuleta — who oversees federal workers — to Minot Air Force Base last year to hear first-

hand the challenges that civilian employees face, nearly 500 have received significant pay increases at the base and across western North Dakota. The raises will help retain and recruit these critical federal employees by making sure their salaries keep pace with the high cost of living in the area. Minot Air Force Base and the proud folks who keep it running are all about service, giving back to their country through hard work, selfless attitudes, and a commitment to keeping the nation safe. Let’s keep working together to make the next 60 years as successful for the base, the Minot community, and nation as the last 60.

Only the Best

Come North!

Thanks for

60 Years of Successful Deterance Preserving our Freedom

1100 South Broadway Minot, ND 58701

701-838-3967 www.tcs-minot.com

60 years - 1955-2015

July 9, 2015

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Minot AFB protects in peace and war In his first inaugural address, President George Washington said, “To be prepared for War is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace.” Congratulations Minot Air Force Base on 60 years of preserving the peace! Since July 12, 1955, Minot and the men and women of the Air Force stationed there have been the tip of the spear in defending the United States. While the names and faces of our enemies have changed since its founding, our vigilance remains constant. In the early days of the Cold War, Minot Air Force Base stood watch against Soviet aggression and deterred communist expansion across the globe. It’s been home to air crews to free nations in the Middle East from brutal dictators and help fight and win the Global War on Terror. Things have come full cir-

is safe to say the cost associated with this mission is a bargain compared to fightKEVIN ing wars. Home to both CRAMER ICBMs and B-52s, Minot houses two of the three legs of our nation’s nuclear triad, successfully deterring others from developing or Congressman, launching their own R-N.D. nuclear weapons. Minot’s 5th Bomb Wing’s B-52s are a direct cle with Minot being pivotal in deterring a more bel- strike weapon able to attack enemies from great disligerent and bellicose tances. With an unfueled Russia as it threatens the independence and freedom combat range in excess of of our allies in Europe and 8,800 miles and the largest payload of nuclear weapons around the globe. of any bomber in the U.S. President Reagan used Fleet, they play a critical the phrase “Peace through role for the United States’ Strength.” It describes nuclear deterrence and conMinot’s mission of deterrence. A robust and strong tinuous bomber presence missions. military is the best way to The B-52 plays an ensure current and potenimportant role in our militial enemies do not even tary’s ability to protect our think of attacking. It is impossible to know friends and allies around how many lives have been the globe in conventional saved by the mere presence bombing roles. Recently, of Minot’s superior force. It Air Force Global Strike

Command deployed three Minot Air Force Base B52H Stratofortresses, assigned to the 5th Bomb Wing, to participate in multinational exercises. Minot AFB men and women will fly training missions over the Baltic Sea during their month-long deployment to Royal Air Force Base Fairford. “I’m glad Minot AFB and all the folks who are at Minot can come here to the United Kingdom and experience some great partners and great teammates,” Lt. Gen. Stephen Wilson, Air Force Global Strike Command commander, said. “The feedback I’m getting is it’s been a win-win relationship for everybody.” Home to the 91st Missile Wing, Minot is one of only three bases maintaining and operating our nuclear ICBM force. MAFB’s 150 Minuteman III ICBMs are ready every day at a moment’s notice to put

bombs on target. This vigilance is vital to promoting peace and keeping our country and allies safe from current and emerging threats. Recently, the 91st Missile Wing won the Blanchard Trophy for Best ICBM Wing the second year in a row. The superior training and dedication of the men and women stationed at Minot was honored when the 5th Bomb Wing was named the 2014 Omaha Trophy recipient for the fourth time as the command’s premier strategic aircraft operations wing, and the 91st Missile Wing was named the 2014 Omaha Trophy recipient as the command’s premier intercontinental ballistic missile wing, in recognition of outstanding support to U.S. Strategic Command’s global strategic missions over the last year. Throughout the history of the Minot Air Force Base,

an unbroken chain of members have protected us in times of peace and fought for us in times of war. Standing behind these members are spouses and children, siblings and relatives. The good citizens of North Dakota recognize and appreciate the tireless efforts of family members supporting their service men and women and communities. The unwavering patriotism found at Minot is second to none. Not only has the base undergone many changes throughout the years, the military personnel have accepted and conquered these changes. Team Minot has proven to be irreplaceable since 1955, and to this day, the men and women remain ever vigilant in defense of our nation and its freedoms. Peace and Liberty are ours, because Minot Air Force Base is ours. Happy 60th, Minot Air Force Base!

5th Bomb Wing Commanders at Minot AFB Col William W. Culbertson 25 Jul 68 - 17 Jul 70 Col Bob M. Garner 18 Jul 70 - 09 May 72

Col William G. MacLaren Jr. 10 May 72 - 23 Jul 74 Col William A. Eveland 24 Jul 74 - 27 Jul 75

Col Kenneth L. Peek Jr. 28 Jul 75 - 30 Jan 77 Col James D. Gormley 31 Jan 77 - 7 Oct 78

Col Pintard M. Dyer III 8 Oct 78 - 04 May 80 Col Alfred D. Herring 05 May 80 - 11 Feb 81

Col Fredrick B. Jaicks 12 Feb 81 - 04 Mar 82 Col Allan C. Blaisdell 05 Mar 82 - 01 Feb 83 Col Alan V. Rogers 02 Feb 83 - 12 Jun 84

Col Robert M. Marquette Jr. 13 Jun 84 - 22 May 86 Col Benard W. Gann 23 May 86 - 15 Mar 88

Col John Wiley III 16 Mar 88 - 23 April 89

Col Kenneth S. Boykin 24 Apr 89 - 24 May 89 Col David L. Young 25 May 89 - 30 Oct 91

Brig. Gen William R. Hodges 31 Oct 91 - 22 Aug 93 Brig. Gen Ralph Pasini 23 Aug 93 - 07 Aug 95 Col Regner C. Rider 08 Aug 95 - 31 Jul 96

Col Robert J. Elder Jr. 01 Aug 96 - 14 Jul 98 Col Gregory H. Power 15 Jul 98 - 31 Jan 00

Col Richard Y. Newton III 01 Feb 00 - 09 Dec 01 Col Kevin J. Kennedy 10 Dec 01 - 10 Jul 03

Col Gregory A. Biscone 11 Jul 03 - 09 Jul 05 Col Eldon A. Woodie 10 Jul 05 - 04 Jun 07 Col Bruce C. Emig 05 Jun 07 - 17 Oct 07

Col Paul G. Bell 18 Oct 07 - 31 Oct 07

Col Joel S. Westa 01 Nov 07 - 29 Oct 09

Col Douglas A. Cox 30 Oct 09 - 30 May 11

Col James C. Dawkins Jr. 31 May 11 - 13 Jan 13 Col Alexis Mezynski 14 Jan 13 - 13 Jul 14

Col Jason R. Armagost 14 Jul 14 - Present

60 years - 1955-2015

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July 9, 2015

City of Minot synonymous with Minot AFB For many in our community, the City of Minot has always been synonymous with Minot Air Force Base. As we celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the ground breaking of Minot Air Force Base, I see that event as being one of the first economic development plans ever implemented in the City of Minot, and a lifechanger for those of us who call Minot ‘home’ today. In the early 1950s, the Air Force was looking at several locations in the upper plains to put a small fighter/interceptor base to guard the border between the U.S. and Canada, which they thought at the time to be “a primary corridor for entry of enemy aircraft.” While Fargo and Bismarck both vied for the project to

another 620 housing units and additional facility buildings. The community knew CHUCK at that point, that Minot Air BARNEY Force Base was going to be much larger than the 1,200man operation that was originally planned. Over the years since, Mayor of Minot Minot Air Force Base has be located in their cities, become much more than they did not receive much just our ‘neighbors to the support from the communi- north.’ The base contributes ty or the Air Force. Minot well over half a billion dolleaders leapt at the opportu- lars to the local economy nity by purchasing land at a each year. It is the largest cost of roughly $50,000, and employer in the region, and through the Chamber of many of our residents today Commerce, donated it to the are retirees who have decidGovernment of the United ed to make Minot their States. Plans were develhome upon leaving active oped by the Air Force for duty. Spouses of active duty 450 units of base housing, Airmen teach in our and construction of the schools, heal the sick at our other base facilities. A year hospitals, work in our later, plans were ordered for offices, stores and restau-

rants, and otherwise contribute in countless ways to make our city a better place. Airmen of all ranks have volunteered their time and efforts mentoring children through the Companions for Kids programs, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, as coaches for various athletic teams, and inspired new leadership through JROTC programs at the high school level. During times of natural disasters, our friends from the base have been right beside us lending a helping hand whenever it was needed. As I reflect on all of that, I can’t bring myself to think of Minot and Minot Air Force Base as separate entities. When a unit from Minot Air Force Base brings home The Omaha trophy, The

Blanchard, or any of the other numerous awards for showing the rest of the world what we already know here, it brings us a sense of pride; like we feel when one of our local teams bring home a State championship. When we see the B52s flying over the city, we don’t feel scared or nervous; we point them out to our friends, and stare at them in awe. When we see missile crews and security forces heading out to the field, we know that the finest young leaders the world has ever known are heading out to stand watch over our nation that night. And on all of those occasions and so many more, we feel like they are a part of us — that they are our friends, our family, our neighbors.

The slogan “Only the Best Come North” is a truism that has been in place since 1957 when the first 20 people were stationed at the base. Throughout the past 60 years, as the city and the base have grown and the missions have changed, the one constant is the professionalism and excellence that comes from all of the Airmen and families stationed here now, and all those that came before you. As we celebrate this milestone in the history of Minot Air Force Base, I want to thank you on behalf of the people of Minot. Thank you for your dedication to the Air Force, your dedication to our city, and for your service to North Dakota and the United States of America.

91st Missile Wing Commanders at Minot AFB Col B.H. Davidson 25 Jun 68 - 9 Jul 69

Col Robert E. Mullin 10 Jul 69 - 3 Aug 70 Col Grover C. Graves Jr. 4 Aug 70 - 18 Mar 73

Col Charles E. McCartney Jr. 19 Mar 73 - 4 May 75

Col Pierce L. Smith 5 May 75 - 28 Jul 76 Col William R. Brooksher 29 Jul 76 - 26 May 77

Col Charles L. Lipscomb 27 May 77 - 17 Mar 80

Col Raymond H. Cleveland 18 Mar 80 - 6 Jul 82 Col Richard P. Jaques 7 Jul 82 - 6 Sep 83 Col Anthony T. Hogan 7 Sep 83 - 13 Jan 85

Col Christopher Branch 14 Jan 85 - 12 Aug 86

Col John J. Politi 13 Aug 86 - 7 Jun 88

Col Stephen L. Col Martin Whelan Col Russell J. Davis 6 Jul 06 - 12 May 08 Anarde 2 Jun 11 - 3 Jun 12 5 Aug 96 - 30 Sep 97 Col David F. Seares Col Christopher B. 8 Jun 88 - 2 Oct 89 Col Robert J. Ayres Col Ronald J. Vercher 13 May 08 Col Edward L. Haeckel 4 Jun 12 - June 2014 - 13 Oct 09 Bailey Jr. 17 Apr 98 - 7 Jun 00 3 Oct 89 - 29 Jul 91 Col Ferdinand B. Col. Michael J. Stoss III Lutton Col Kimber L. Col Dennis O. 14 Oct 09 1 Jun 11 June 2014-Present McKenzie Abbey 30 Jul 91 - 6 May 92 8 Jun 00 - 27 May 02 Col Howard G. DeWolf 7 May 92 - 14 Jul 93 Col Mark H. Owen 28 May 02 Col Gerald F. - 19 Jul 04 Perryman Jr. 15 Jul 93 - 4 Jan 95 Col Daniel S. Adams Jr. Col Frank G. Klotz 20 Jul 04 - 5 Jul 06 5 Jan 95 - 4 Aug 96

60 years - 1955-2015

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‘We are proud to be your friends, neighbors and supporters’ Congratulations to Minot Air Force base on 60 years of enhancing our community and playing a critical role in the defense of our nation. We are proud to be your friends, neighbors, and supporters. Minot wanted to be the home community for the new “jet base” the Air Force was going to build, so much in fact, that Minot community leaders managed to donate land to the government for it. That action was the foundation of the kind of relationship the City of Minot and Minot Air Force Base have enjoyed for 60 years. As the base was built and as the airmen arrived from all parts of the coun-

and learn in depth about the various missions and jobs at the base. MARK JOHN Over decades, flying MacMARTIN JANTZER missions have changed, with fighter interceptors and tankers departing, and changing roles for the B-52 bombers with de-alerting. President, Minot Chairman, ICBMs have changed from Area Chamber of Task Force 21 multi to single warhead, and nuclear arms agreeCommerce long-standing programs like ments brought Soviet/Russian inspectors the Prairie Warrior try, Minot citizens develAuction, Wild Game Feed, to Minot. At the beginning oped ways to meet and of the 1990s, with the U.S. and Military Day at the support them, welcoming Zoo, to benefit airmen sta- military looking to reduce those assigned to Minot infrastructure by closing tioned at Minot. Along AFB into the community bases with Base with Base leadership, an churches, clubs, schools, Realignment and Closure Honorary Commanders stores. The Minot Area Program gives Minot civil- (BRAC) rounds, communiChamber of Commerce ty support for Minot Air ian community members formed a Military Affairs Force Base evolved to the opportunity to get to Committee, and over time another level. know officers personally initiated what are now

Task Force 96 was formed by the City of Minot and Minot Area Chamber with the goal of retaining Minot AFB beyond the three rounds of BRAC in the 1990s. The success of those efforts formed the basis for the ongoing efforts of Task Force 21 (TF21), working with the North Dakota Congressional Delegations, Governor, North Dakota Adjutant General, industry leaders, Department of Defense leadership, and Air Force Major Commands and Headquarters, to retain Minot AFB and its missions. Minot AFB not only survived the BRAC in 2005, but a second B-52 squadron, the 69th

Squadron was added. As implied by its current name, TF21 wants to have our base around through the 21st century. The deepest gratitude we have for Minot AFB is for its people, both past and present, who have done excellent work, enriched our lives, and then for the most part moved on in their careers. Shoulder to shoulder we have lived, worked, laughed and cried together as one community. We could not ask for better. The Air Force keeps sending us great people, and we welcome them and give unwavering support. Here’s to the next 60 years!

MAFB Support Unit Commanders 1956-2015 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sep 56 Maj Joe E. Roberts 17 Sep 56

32d Air Base Squadron 8 Feb 57 Lt Col John B. May 11 Aug 58

Col Frank Q. OʼConnor 23 Jun 59 Col Richard F. Weltzin 10 Oct 60 32d Air Base Group 1 Feb 61

Lt Col Harry V. Bankard 01 Feb 61 Lt Col Stacey E. Brown 12 Oct 61 862d Combat Support Group 1 Jul 62

Col Julius B. Summers, Jr. 01 Jul 62

Col Benjamin M. Matlick, Jr. 06 Aug 63

Col Jerry E. Upchurch 17 Jun 65 Col Robert T. Hall 23 May 66

91st Combat Support Group 1 Aug 72 Col Harvey B. Logan 01 Aug 72 Col John W. Blanton 31 Aug 74

Col Robert C. Spencer 23 Dec 74 Col Billy B. Sifford 02 Jul 75

Col William E. Bristol 14 Jul 82 Col David M Woods 22 May 84

Col Franks C. Watson 30 May 85 Col Bruce D. Twine 29 Aug 86

Lt Col Arthur E. Cole 15 Jun 88

Col Kenneth L. Holden 31 Oct 77

857th Combat Support Group 22 Jun 88

Col George E. Porter 01 Jan 69

Col Harry K. Rogers 01 Sep 79 (acting CC)

Col Charles L. Tatum 08 Jul 88

Col Harvey B. Logan 12 Nov 71

Col Arthur E. Johnson 10 Dec 80

Col Boyd B. White 08 May 67

Col Ralph E. Kirchoff 12 Sep 68 Col David W. Borchert 22 Sep 70

Col Alfred D. Herring 26 Jul 78 Col George S. Cudd 01 Dec 79

Lt Col Arthur E. Cole 22 Jun 88

Col Gerald L. Gerlach 15 Aug 89 5th Support Group 1 Sep 91

Col Gerald L. Gerlach 01 Sep 91 Col Larry W. Odom 14 Feb 92

Col Danny C. Rehm 24 Jun 93 Col David R. Evans 22 Aug 94

Col Richard C. Hughes 30 Oct 95 Col Yoshi Smith 21 Apr 97

5th Mission Support Group 4 Sep 02 Col Maryann H. Chisolm 18 Jun 02

Col Jay S. Carlson 18 Jun 04 Col Glenn A. Lang 17 Aug 06

Col James M. Gallagher 23 Jun 08 Col Michael L. Dilda 14 Jun 10

Col John N. McLean, Jr. 02 Nov 98 Lt Col Randall S. Morris 17 Aug 11 Col Paul C. Keller, Jr. 19 Jul 00 Col William P. Mazzeno 24 Feb 12 Col Maryann H. Chisolm Col Roy W. Collins 18 Jun 02 11 Jul 14