Legionnaires meet 'Flying Vikings'

The American Legion's National Security Commission visited two Minnesota air bases Friday and learned how both fulfill essential military-support services around the world and at home.

The group began the morning with a tour of the 133rd Airlift Wing, a Minnesota Air National Guard Wing headquartered in St. Paul. The Legionnaires climbed aboard a C-130 Hercules at the air base and were briefed about how the 133rd provides the U.S. Air Force with tactical airlift of troops, cargo and patients anywhere in the world. The wing also stands ready to support the state of Minnesota in the event of disaster.

The group then toured the 934th Airlift Wing, also known as the "Flying Vikings." Minnesota's only Air Force Reserve unit, the 934th flies C-130s into combat theaters, dropping cargo and people, and also provides aeromedical evacuation of patients.

At both installations, Legionnaires interacted with young airmen, discussing their duties, mission readiness and op-tempo. One airman told the Legionnaires that he has been deployed each of the past 10 years, usually between four and six months each time. Commission members also visited the Minnesota Air Guard Museum.

Following the tours, a lunch and the briefings, National Security Commission Chairman Mike Schlee presented American Legion Soaring Eagle Awards to Col. Darrell G. Young, commander of the 934th Airlift Wing, and to Col. Greg Haase, commander of the 133rd Airlift Wing. Also recognized were Col.. Brian Wyneke, Master Sgt. Paul Zadach and Chief Master Sgt. Mike Rak.