Community members in St. Joseph, Missouri, gathered on September 5, 2023, to celebrate the 139th Airlift Wing during a reception organized by the Civic Leadership Academy. The event aimed to enhance understanding of the Missouri Air National Guard’s role and foster support for military initiatives in the region. Attendees engaged with leadership from the 139th and explored potential partnerships to benefit both the military and local businesses.
Engagement and Community Impact
According to Natalie Hawn, president and CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce, the annual celebration underscores the economic and community significance of maintaining the 139th Airlift Wing in St. Joseph. “It’s designed to be a way for them to interact with leadership at the 139th, and there will be businesses with opportunities to learn about potential partnerships and learn how to better serve St. Joseph,” Hawn stated.
This gathering marks the third year of the celebration, reflecting the growing awareness of the unit’s global contributions, including training partners from NATO nations on various weapons systems. “It’s a chance for them to go and learn what happens at the 139th and how we can be proud partners here in St. Joe and be proud of having our air force base,” Hawn added.
Opportunities for Local Youth
During the event, attendees also received information regarding incentives for college and trade schools, highlighting the financial benefits available to young people interested in military service. Barrette Golden, Wing Commander of the 139th Airlift Wing, emphasized the training opportunities offered by the Air Force. “The Air Force provides a lot of training and opportunities to where we can teach somebody to be a welder or a mechanic or a plumber or a pilot,” he said.
Organizers of the event expressed their commitment to showcasing leadership opportunities and illustrating the value the Air National Guard brings not only to the local community but also to the nation as a whole. The collaboration between local businesses and military leadership aims to create a stronger, more supportive environment for the military’s ongoing presence in St. Joseph.
As the community continues to recognize the essential role of the 139th Airlift Wing, events like this serve to bridge the gap between military and civilian sectors, fostering a spirit of partnership and mutual respect.
