NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
DATE: October 27, 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Dana Kazel, Communications Manager
Office: 218-725-5049 Cell: 218-591-2219
County Board passes resolution of support for 148th Fighter Wing; also issues proclamation for Operation Green Light for Veterans
The St. Louis County Board has issued a resolution expressing its strong support for the Minnesota National Guard 148th Fighter Wing to be selected to receive the F-35 Lightning II mission. The resolution highlights that the 148th being based in Duluth is an ideal location in terms of airspace, noting that it's the largest and most accessible fighter training airspace in the continental United States; and is strategically located for both homeland defense and arctic readiness.
The U.S. Air Force plans to select two National Guard Wings to take delivery of new F-35 Lightning II fighter jets beginning in 2033. With the decision expected to be made in the near future, the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee is leading efforts to support the 148th in being selected for this new mission and to remain an elite fighter wing based in Duluth.
"We are fortunate to have such a dedicated and talented fighter wing based in our region, serving our state and country," said Commissioner Annie Harala, whose district includes the 148th base. "I also want to express gratitude to the Chamber's Military Affairs Committee for their leadership in coordinating this outpouring of community support for the 148th."
In addition to the resolution of support, the St. Louis County Board, along with other County leaders, sent letters of support last week to Air Force Secretary Troy Meink. The letters highlight community support for the 148th as well as appreciation for the 148th's partnerships with the County in serving residents. All seven county commissioners signed one of the letters. Additional letters were provided by Sheriff Gordon Ramsay, County Veterans Service Officer Nadine Wells, and County Administrator Kevin Gray,
"The men and women of the 148th have repeatedly shown their skill and leadership, as well as their adaptability to serve whenever called," said County Board Chair Mike Jugovich. "We are proud to add our voices to the many in our communities calling for this new mission for the 148th."
Copies of each letter can be found at the links below:
County Board letter of support for 148th Fighter Wing F-35 Mission.pdf
Sheriff Ramsay letter of support for 148th Fighter Wing F-35 Mission.pdf
CVSO Director Wells letter of support for 148th Fighter Wing F-35 Mission.pdf
Administrator Gray letter of support for 148th Fighter Wing F-35 Mission.pdf
Meanwhile, the County Board also issued a proclamation Tuesday to honor veterans and encourage participation in Operation Green Light for Veterans. This is the third year that St. Louis County and its Veterans Service Office has led efforts in our region, encouraging people, businesses and other government entities to display green lights during the week leading up to Veterans Day, November 4-11.
This nationwide effort is intended to recognize the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. The goal is to light up storefronts, building, and landmark in green - whether with a single green light bulb or a string of green lights. People are encouraged to then share photos on social media using hashtags #OperationGreenLight #SupportOurVeterans #StLouisCountyMNCares.
“Veterans are an important part of St. Louis County and Operation Green Light is a simple but powerful way for all of us to show them that their service matters,” said Nadine Wells, County Veterans Service Officer. "We continue to see great support from communities across the county getting involved. Even Bentleyville has again committed its support by lighting its big tree green for the week to show its support for veterans."
All St. Louis County Courthouses and Government Services Centers will display green lights. New this year, The Depot, Public Safety Building and Jail will also shine green.
Green is the color of hope, renewal, and well-being, and sends a message of support and gratitude to veterans and their families. By displaying a green light for veterans, people not only bring attention to veterans and their needs, but also reminds everyone to reflect on how our communities can assist military service personnel as they transition back into civilian life upon completion of their service.
St. Louis County is home to more than 13,000 veterans. The St. Louis County Veterans Service Office works to connect veterans with the federal, state and other benefits they've earned through their military service. To learn more, visit stlouscountymn.gov/veteran.
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 The St. Louis County Board has proclaimed Nov. 4-11 as a week to honor veterans and current servicemembers by displaying a green light or lights as a show of support. During the same meeting, commissioners uanimously approved a resolution of support for the 148th Fighter Wing to be selected to receive the F-35 Lightning II mission.
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