MONTANA AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mont. — County officials gathered in a maintenance hangar at the local Air National Guard base in Great Falls, Montana, Feb.13, 2020 for a rare Open Hangar event.
The event was an opportunity for officials across the state to connect with the 120th Airlift Wing’s leadership and its members to learn about the mission and updates to the wing.
“This is different from what we normally do. Normally we do these open hangars for high school students,” says Senior Master Sgt. Josh Brown, the state production superintendent for the Montana Air National Guard. “This is a great way to showcase our capabilities to the county officials so they can share our story with their communities. The MTANG is the best kept secret in Montana.”
Subject matter experts from various career fields showed off their capabilities.
“We had our prism system out there. It's a virtual shooting simulator that has over 500 scenarios” says U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Leslie Osterman, the unit training manager with the 120th AW Security Forces Squadron. “It’s pretty cool to show it off.”
A mobile services trailer, a communications truck and different aspects of the maintenance team including sheet metal products and a propeller display were featured at the event. In the middle of the hangar was the wing’s largest asset—the C-130 Hercules.
“Amazing experience learning what the great men and women of the 120th do every day to protect and defend the people of Montana.” says Denis Pitman, Yellowstone County Commissioner. “My favorite part was getting to meet with all the members and see the pride in all that they are doing.”
There will be another Open Hangar April 21, 2020. This event is open to high school students only. Students may register through their school counselors.