As the Lamarand family prepares to depart Minot Air Force Base for their next assignment, Nathalie Lamarand, spouse of the 5th Bomb Wing Commander, Colonel Jesse W. Lamarand , leaves behind a legacy built on service, compassion, and a deep commitment to the Airmen and families of Team Minot.
When she first learned her family would be heading to North Dakota in 2024, Nathalie admitted she had few expectations beyond assuming the assignment might feel isolated. Those perceptions changed almost immediately upon arrival. “From the first moment I drove through the gate under the ‘Only the Best Come North’ sign, I felt the sense of pride and camaraderie that makes this base so special,” she said.
Over the past two years, that first impression only grew stronger. As she prepares to leave, Nathalie says her heart is full after witnessing Airmen and their families grow, succeed, and move on to new chapters in their Air Force journeys.
Throughout her 24 years as part of the Air Force community, Nathalie has experienced military life from many perspectives. At Minot AFB, she embraced opportunities to support spouses, Airmen, and families by helping connect them with resources and programs designed to ease the challenges of military transitions. One of the most rewarding aspects of her time at Minot AFB was working alongside organizations such as the Military and Family Readiness Center. She praised the center’s efforts to support first-term Airmen, new military spouses, and families adjusting to life at Minot Air Force Base.
She also treasured the opportunity to witness milestone moments in Airmen’s careers, from Airman Leadership School graduations and promotion ceremonies to retirements and changes of command. “It’s been humbling and truly an honor to live this full-circle experience,” she said.
For Nathalie, one of the most meaningful aspects of military spouse life has always been helping others. Drawing from decades of experience, she believes that even the smallest act of mentorship can have a lasting impact. “If I can help one spouse or one Airman successfully navigate a system that’s not always user-friendly, then I know they’ll continue helping others who come after them,” she explained. That commitment to service extended beyond guidance and mentorship. She found inspiration in the stories of resilience shared by Airmen and families across the base. From overcoming personal adversity to achieving professional success, those stories reinforced the strength and determination that define the Minot community.
When asked what impressed her most about Minot Air Force Base, Nathalie’s answer was, the people! She described the installation as a place where families genuinely take care of one another. Whether facing major challenges or simply needing a helping hand, she observed time and time again how quickly the community responded to support those in need. She also praised the installation’s Force Support Squadron and its extensive programs, events, and services that enrich the lives of Airmen and their families.
Off base, Nathalie found a level of community support unlike anything she had experienced during her years of military life across seven different states. She highlighted initiatives such as the Prairie Warrior Auction and Operation Homebound as examples of the strong partnership between the city and the base. “From the moment we arrived, we were connected with community leaders who welcomed us with open arms,” she said. From local leaders to community volunteers, she said residents consistently demonstrated their commitment to ensuring military families thrive during their time in North Dakota.
Reflecting on lessons she will carry forward, Nathalie credited two leaders who made a lasting impression on her. One is 5th Bomb Wing Command Chief Wayne Sharp’s simple reminder to “Just Be a Good Person.” The other is 91st Missile Wing Command Chief Becky Thomas’ challenge: “Are you bored or are you boring?” Those messages, she said, serve as important reminders to remain engaged, positive, and focused on helping others.
If she had to describe Minot Air Force Base in three words, Nathalie chose resilient, loyal, and dynamic. Resilient because of the community’s ability to thrive despite harsh winters and demanding conditions. Loyal because of the family atmosphere that naturally develops among Airmen, civilians, and families. Dynamic because, despite constant changes in leadership and personnel, the installation remains focused on accomplishing its critical mission.
For newcomers arriving at Minot, her advice is simple: get involved. She encourages families to connect with support networks, participate in community activities, and take advantage of resources available through organizations such as the Military and Family Readiness Center, Key Support Liaisons, and the Minot Spouses Club. “There are more things to do here than you will have time to do,” she said.
As she prepares to leave, Nathalie says saying goodbye will be one of the hardest parts of the transition. “This place will always hold a huge place in my heart,” she said. “The people will hold an even bigger place.” Looking back, it is the relationships she formed that she will miss most. The friendships, conversations, laughter, and shared experiences created bonds she believes will last a lifetime.
For Nathalie Lamarand, Minot Air Force Base became far more than a duty station. It became a community she proudly calls family. As she and her family begin their next chapter, the impact she leaves behind will continue to be felt throughout Team Minot. Through her kindness, advocacy, and genuine care for others, she has helped strengthen a community that will remember her long after her departure.
Writer’s Note:
Nathalie, thank you for always being a genuine person. It was always very easy to talk to you and never felt like I was talking to the Installation Commander’s wife, but just a person who was always friendly and sincere. You went out of your way for the Airmen and families on the installation and definitely left your mark on the base and in all our hearts. Thank you for being you. You will be missed!
