We all know people who encounter unpredictable and challenging situations, requiring them to adapt quickly.  Their ability to remain composed, or look composed, in high pressure situations is enviable. Staff Sgt. Kristin Swanstrom, a Tactical Aircraft Maintenance specialist, or crew chief, from the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing, is one of those people who make
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Military families come in many shapes and sizes, and all members of the family serve in their own ways, at home or abroad. For some, that service involves keeping the home front running while their service member is deployed or working, for others, it includes taking an oath and putting the uniform on themselves. That
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Father’s Day is a day to celebrate fathers and father figures, and to show appreciation for their love, support, and guidance. It’s also a day to recognize the importance, influence, and strength of paternal bonds. For a Minnesota National Guard father and son, this bond has become even more special and indelible through their joint
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May 21, 2024 (CAMP RIPLEY, Minn.)– “Peah Teah, Peah Teah!! Good for you and GOOD for me!” screamed the cadence caller as the formation ran down the road in the early morning darkness. The goal was to stretch (15 minutes), run 5 miles (30 Minutes) and do a cooldown (another 15 minutes) before the end
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Every year in May, the United States Department of Defense recognizes the strength and contributions of the nation’s nearly one million military spouses. In Minnesota, there are almost 9,500 National Guard and Reserve spouses. This includes Elizabeth Bradshaw, spouse of Minnesota National Guard Army Maj. Justin Bradshaw, 34th Infantry Division. The Bradshaws have three children:
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Growing up in Minneapolis, Army 2nd Lt. Colton Rossow learned quickly that the people around him strived to build a strong sense of community. “This aspect of Minnesota is one of the main reasons I have never left the state,” he said. “And why I felt that it was my duty to serve the people
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Being a military spouse can be a challenging role for many, even those who have also served in the armed forces. Air Force veteran Megan Della Rossa was a staff sergeant who served in various roles, including in maintenance data analysis, personnel, and retention. She was also a specialist in the Airman & Family Readiness
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In March, the Minnesota National Guard’s 55th Civil Support Team, or CST, conducted a joint field training exercise, or FTX, at the Prairie Island Indian Community with several agencies, including the Minneapolis FBI.  The scenario began with community members falling ill after a large funeral gathering. Local first responders treating the attendees noticed symptoms consistent
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Having a spouse serving in the military can be difficult for a family. But how about having two military spouses in a family? The Minnesota National Guard’s Air Force Master Sgt. Tyler Pearson and his spouse Air Force Master Sgt. Marina Pearson both serve with the Saint Paul-based 133rd Airlift Wing Maintenance Group. They recently
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