Minot was recognized for its exceptional commitment in its support to Minot Air Force Base when it received the 2025 Great American Defense Community Award.

The award from the Association of Defense Communities (ADC) to Minot for its support of Minot AFB was announced at the Defense Communities National Summit held in Washington, D.C., earlier this year, according to Minot Area Chamber EDC information.

Greater Buckley Region in Colorado for its support of Buckley Space Force Base and Yuma, Arizona, for its support of Marine Corps Air Station were also recognized.

“North Dakota is committed to being the most military-friendly state in the nation, and this recognition of Minot as a Great American Defense Community is proof of that commitment,” Gov. Kelly Armstrong said.

U.S. Air Force Col. Jimmy Schlabach, 91st Missile Wing commander, (holding microphone) gives remarks during the Great American Defense Communities recognition ceremony at the North Dakota State Fair in Minot July 18. U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Kyle Wilson.

In the 10 years, 50 communities have been selected as Great American Defense Communities across all branches of the military.

During a ceremony held at the North Dakota State Fair Grandstand before the July 18 evening concert, Minot was recognized as a 2025 Great American Defense Community.

Armstrong, MACEDC leadership, Minot AFB, City of Minot representatives and a delegation from ADC gathered on stage to highlight the community’s military commitment. A B-52 bomber from Minot AFB conducted a flyover before the ceremony.

Sentinel town hall

The public had the opportunity to ask questions about the U.S. Air Force’s proposed Sentinel missile replacement project coming to the Minot area when a town hall meeting was held in Minot Aug. 26.

Maj. Gen. Colin Connor, director of Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Modernization, said the cost of the new system will be expensive upfront but inexpensive to maintain in comparison, according to a story in the Aug. 27 edition of The Minot Daily News.

Connor said the initial process was to complete the project base by base but that has changed. The Air Force now is looking at the potential for a more simultaneous approach while still maintaining deterrence.

As of the April meeting, the timing and actual cost of the Sentinel project at Minot was unknown.

Katie Parks, ICBM Program executive officer deputy, said they have to build 400 missiles and then get them all deployed.

Those attending were told more meetings would be held.