Duluth Mayor Visits 148th Fighter Wing

  • Published
  • By Capt. Audra Flanagan
  • 148FW
February 4th, 2008 --  Duluth's newly-elected Mayor, Don Ness along with Dave Boe, Margaret Hodnik and Jeff Papas visited the 148th Fighter Wing on Monday, February 4th, 2008. The visit included a mission brief, F-16 familiarization and Explosive Ordnance Disposal demonstration.

Topics included in Mayor Ness' briefing included the 148th history, current mission, personnel metrics, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) mission, current and future construction projects, and significant accomplishments.

Mayor Ness presented 148th Fighter Wing Commander, Col. Mark Johnson with a proclamation making February 4, 2008 "148th Fighter Wing Day" in the city of Duluth. The proclamation states "the 148th Fighter Wing has a long history of excellence in the national service and in the defense of the United States of America" and "We wish to honor the members of the 148th Fighter Wing for their devotion, dedication to duty and the vital role they play both in the vitality of Duluth as well as the security of our nation".

Mayor Ness stated that "I've long been aware and appreciative of the important role the 148th plays in our national security, but I learned about many of the other ways this dedicated group of servicemen and servicewomen helps Duluth grow and prosper. The 148th has my full support and I thank Colonel Johnson and his entire command for their leadership and service."

148th Fighter Wing Vice Commander, Col. Frank Stokes who was a participant on Monday's tour stated that "Mayor Ness's visit to the 148th helped to lay the foundation for a close partnership between the Bulldogs and the Leadership of Duluth. He was keenly attentive to our presentation, and has a strong understanding of the issues affecting the future of the Wing. The mayor was sincerely interested in the past accomplishments of the 148th, and recognized the Wing's recent success with a City proclamation. The 148th is fortunate to have the continued support of the Community leaders and elected officials."