Community celebrates 139th Airlift Wing and local leadership
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The Civic Leadership Academy celebrated the 139th Airlift Wing during a reception and visit, which will take a deeper dive into the inner workings of the Missouri Air National Guard.
A visit on Friday, Sept. 5, served as a chance for community members not just to learn more about the 139th, but also to see how they can help support and advocate for the military in the region.
“It’s designed to be a way for them to interact with leadership at the 139th, and there will be businesses with opportunities to learn about potential partnerships and learn how to better serve St. Joseph,” said Natalie Hawn, president and CEO of St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.
This marks the third year for the annual celebration, which Hawn said is all about showing the economic and community impact of keeping the 139th in St. Joseph.
Hawn also said residents don’t realize the global role the unit plays — including training NATO nations on weapons systems.
“It's a chance for them to go and learn what happens at the 139th and how we can be proud partners here in St. Joe and be proud of having our air force base,” Hawn said.
Information on college and trade school incentives, plus details on the financial benefits available to young people.
“The Air Force provides a lot of training and opportunities to where we can teach somebody to be a welder or a mechanic or a plumber or a pilot,” said Barrette Golden, Wing Commander of the 139th Airlift Wing.
Organizers say the overall goal is to highlight leadership opportunities and show the value the Air National Guard brings not just to the region, but to the nation.
