How did Minot, a far-north city on the Drift Prairie, end up with an Air Force base that operates both a bomber and missile component of the U.S. nuclear triad?  

Residents decided they wanted a base, and so they went out and got one.  

“Seventy years ago, the community raised funds to purchase land and then contacted the Air Force and said ‘we would like an installation here,’” Brekka Kramer, President/CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC explained. “That’s how the relationship started. For 70 years the community has continued to build upon that.”  

While that might be a simplified explanation of how the region came to play a vital role in our nation’s strategic deterrence, it exemplifies the deep connection, enthusiasm and respect this community has for its base.  

The feeling is mutual.  

“The job for here at Minot, for both the 91st and the 5th Bomb Wing, it’s hard. We must be ready at a moment’s notice,” said Colonel James Schlabach, Commander of the 91st Missile Wing at Minot Air Force Base. “When our airman come off nuclear alert, or provide defense or maintenance, that recovery period is critical and essential. This community provides such a home for our airman. Not just a place to live or a place to be stationed at, but a home.  

The strong support that helps Minot’s airmen feel at home is a community-wide effort, but many initiatives are led by The Minot Task Force 21, an organization established to ensure Minot Air Force Base survived the 1995 BRAC round. Since then, the group has worked tirelessly to advance both mission-related MILCON projects and programs focused on the health, morale, and well-being of airmen and their families.  

“The answer from this community is never no. It’s always yes—and how can I do more,” added Col. Schlabach 

In 2023, Minot earned the Barksdale Trophy for the second time. Presented by Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), the award recognizes the defense community that has provided the most outstanding support to an AFGSC base over the previous 24 months. The trophy honors efforts in community-based support, local investment and assistance in securing state and federal funding.  

“Minot isn’t Minot without Minot Air Force Base,” said Kramer. “As you enter MAFB, there is a sign that reads ‘Only The Best Come North’ and we truly believe this.  

This story was published in America’s Defense Communities magazine. You can read the full publication here.    

Air Force photo by Senior Airman Luis Gomez