Camp Ripley Welcomes Public for 2023 Open House
MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
Sept 13, 2023
LITTLE FALLS, Minn. – This Sunday, Camp Ripley welcomes the public for their 2023 Open
House, which allows the public to interact with the employees, service members, and families of
the Minnesota National Guard during this biennial event.
“Camp Ripley is a staple of our State, and we could not do it without the support of the public,
our employees, and service members,” said Army Lt. Col Troy Fink, Camp Ripley’s Garrison
Commander. “We welcome the opportunity to visit with the public, and show off Camp Ripley
Training Center, so that they can see the exceptional work and training that occurs here.”
The Camp Ripley Open House will allow the public to interact with service members to learn
about the various weapons such as sniper rifles, semi-automatic, and machine guns on display.
Camp Ripley will also have several models of military vehicles, including the new M109A7
artillery howitzer, the M1 Abrams tank, and many more on display. The public with have an
opportunity to view and explore the Guard’s helicopters.
Camp Ripley’s Open House will offer families the experience of riding in a Highly Mobile
Multi-Wheeled Vehicle otherwise known as a Humvee with a service member. Representatives
from various veterans’ organizations, community outreach programs, and organizations who
support for families and service members, will be present. The 34th Red Bull Infantry Division
Rock Band will provide free entertainment throughout the day. Various food and drink vendors
will be available, and there will be a classic car show to visit throughout the Open House. At 2
p.m., the military vehicles on display will turn on their engines, and there will be a vehicle
parade as the event concludes.
“This is always an incredible event,” said Army Command Sgt. Maj. Rian Hofstad, Camp
Ripley’s Garrison Command Sergeant Major. “Our service members cherish the opportunity to
be in front of the people they serve. We look forward to the Open House this year, and we have a
lot of new equipment, vendors, and opportunities for the public to experience alongside their
Minnesota National Guard service members.”
Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the event on Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2
p.m., located at Camp Ripley Training Center, 15000 MN-115, Little Falls, Minn. Media can
RSVP to Army Capt. William Hermanson at 507-616-6536
or william.t.hermanson.mil@army.mil. Valid Identification is required for entry onto Camp
Ripley.
About the Minnesota National Guard –
Established in 1856 and headquartered in St. Paul, the Minnesota National Guard has more than
13,000 Soldiers and Airmen who serve in 58 communities across the state. The Citizen-Soldiers
and Airmen of the Minnesota National Guard are ‘Always Ready’ to fight the nation’s wars,
protect the country, respond to state emergencies, and contribute to local communities. For more
information about the Minnesota National Guard, visit https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil.
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