Defending the Homeland: National Security and Area Military Briefing

In a time marked by global threats, geopolitical tensions, domestic challenges and countless issues making national headlines, we must understand the state of our FMWF military and our region’s role in national security. From international missions and intelligence operations to disaster or emergency responses, our military plays a vital role in safeguarding our way of life as we know it.

Gain unique and invaluable insights from Colonel Domitrovich, Commander of the North Dakota Air National Guard 119th Wing, as he unveils the indispensable contributions of our local military forces. As the sole Air National Guard Wing in North Dakota, the Happy Hooligans bear a significant national and global responsibility. Their role not only surprises those unaware but also fosters a profound sense of pride within our region and the military community.

In addition, hear from Colonel Kevin Miller of the 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade of the North Dakota Army National Guard, and Major Zachery Hendrickson, Officer in Charge a the 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry Regiment of the Minnesota Army National Guard. Each will speak about the unique role their units play in the scope of national security, from right here in our backyard. 

In a time of uncertainty, evolving threats, and countless news stories and perspectives, this event serves as a morning of clarity, offering information and a deeper understanding of what threats we are facing today and how our region’s military breadth and operations are at the center of our national defense and preserving our livelihoods.  

“The 119th Wing is one of the most highly decorated Air Guard units in our nation, with an outstanding record of excellence as it provides critical support to military operations around the globe.”
        - U.S. Senator John Hoeven 



Panelists:
Colonel Christopher M. Domitrovich, Commander, 119th Wing, ND Air National Guard
Major Zachery Hendrickson, Executive Officer, Minnesota Army National Guard
Colonel Kevin Miller, 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, ND Army National Guard
Moderated by Brian Shawn, Honorary Commander, 141st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade
 

• The North Dakota Air and Army National Guard have an annual economic impact of $123,275,122 on our FMWF metro? 

• The 119th Wing Happy Hooligans were in Washington, D.C. only minutes after the attack on the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. The North Dakota F-16s continued to fly combat air patrols over our nation's capital for months to follow. 

• Today, the 119th Wing mission is to provide trained and ready Airmen executing world class MQ-9 Reaper precision attack and reconnaissance, kinetic and non-kinetic intelligence, and expeditionary support capabilities for the nation and state. 

• The Test and Resource Management Center (TRMC) will open a data center in Fargo to support its Sky Range program and gather information from hypersonic missile tests.