Airman 1st Class Vincent Padilla,, Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. – Community leaders, Air Force representatives and local partners gathered at Minot International Airport, Feb 17, 2025, for the ribbon cutting of the new Military Welcome Center. The addition features a lounge area designed to host active duty service members, veterans, retirees and their families.
Hosted by the Minot Area Chamber Economic Development Corporation (MACEDC), the ceremony featured remarks from North Dakota U.S. Sen. John Hoeven, as well as MACEDC Board Chair Jarid Lundeen and Chief Master Sgt. Wayne Sharp, 5th Bomb Wing command chief at Minot Air Force Base.
U.S. Air Force photos I Airman 1st Class Vincent Padilla
During the ceremony, Sharp emphasized the importance of the initiative for Airmen and their families arriving in Minot.
“The vision behind this welcome center was simple but profound: to provide our Airmen with a place that feels like home from the very first moment they arrive,” Sharp said. “Our goal was to ensure that every Airman who steps off the plane in Minot is greeted with a warm, supportive space where they can feel welcomed, informed and empowered to succeed.”
The space is intended to provide a warm, supportive environment for military members traveling to and from the city of Minot. The Military Welcome Center offers comfortable seating, a television and complimentary snacks and water.
During the ceremony, Hoeven presented an American flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to commemorate the cooperation between the city and the base to make this lounge possible.
“This Military Welcome Center epitomizes the magic of Minot,” said U.S. Sen. John Hoeven. “There’s a reason why it’s the magic city, it’s the people.”
The project was made possible through the support of donors and contributions of local businesses. The center reflects the strong partnership between Team Minot and the local community, highlighting a shared commitment to supporting those who serve.
