JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska — Every two years, the Native Village of Eklutna invites the public to their powwow and potlatch, a two-day cultural event to learn about and celebrate Dena’ina Athabascan culture. U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Robert Davis, commander of Alaskan NORAD Region, Alaskan Command and Eleventh Air Force, alongside his staff, attended the event on Aug. 12, 2026, to show support for the military’s enduring relationship with the village and its tribal government.
“It is important for senior military leaders to visit and be a part of this event because of the government-to-government relationship between the Department of War and federally recognized tribes,” said Amanda Andraschko, Native affairs liaison with Alaskan Command. “JBER has developed a strong relationship with the Native Village of Eklutna over the past 20-plus years.”
The theme of the 2026 event, “Restoring our River – 97 Years Later,” was to recognize the continuing work the tribe has done in an effort to restore all five species of salmon runs to the Eklutna River. The tribe welcomed residents and visitors from across the state and nation to join them in celebration and to learn about Dena’ina Athabascan cultural traditions.
“Events like this benefit both parties to better understand one another, to understand more about this beautiful place that we live in and its culture and history,” said Andraschko. “It helps us better understand each other as neighbors within the Municipality of Anchorage.”
The event offered a full display of Native culture. Vendors and members of the community sold many different kinds of goods, while others talked about programs within the community. The tribe provided moose, salmon and fried bread to feed participants during the potlatch. Attendees also brought food to share, an important part of Alaska Native culture. Additionally, Native dance groups performed to traditional drum music throughout the two-day event.
“Having a strong relationship with our neighboring tribal governments remains an important and meaningful endeavor,” said Davis. “It’s one that the senior military leaders of JBER take seriously and continue to pursue.”