Alaska’s “Frontier Grit, Indy Speed” pin, displayed at the 168th Wing, Alaska Air National Guard, Sept. 3, 2026, celebrates Alaska’s victory in the first-ever National Guard Association of the United States state pin competition held during the 148th NGAUS General Conference and Exhibition in Indianapolis, Indiana. Designed by Lt. Col. Yutashea Zirkle, the pin features an Alaska bear behind the wheel, racing colors and checkered flags, along with Alaska’s Big Dipper stars and mountain peaks, blending Alaska’s frontier heritage with Indianapolis’ racing culture. Pin trading is a long-standing NGAUS tradition, giving Guard members from across the nation an opportunity to share pride in their state, National Guard story and heritage. NGAUS serves as the national voice for the nation's Guard members, advocating before Congress on issues affecting Guard readiness, modernization, pay, and benefits. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Julie Avey)
| Date Taken: | 05.15.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 09.05.2026 19:35 |
| Photo ID: | 9915476 |
| VIRIN: | 260903-Z-UF872-1011 |
| Resolution: | 1068x1131 |
| Size: | 269.88 KB |
| Location: | EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, ALASKA, US |
| Web Views: | 10 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Alaska’s Frontier Grit Takes the Win at First-Ever NGAUS State Pin Competition [Image 8 of 8], by SMSgt Julie Avey, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.