Vermont National Guard hosts base open house on 9/11

Sept. 2, 2022  |  By Maj. Meghan Smith | News Release 

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot assigned to the 134th Fighter Squadron, Vermont Air National Guard, prepares for launch at the Vermont Air National Guard Base in South Burlington, March 30, 2022. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Michael Davis

SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt. – The Vermont National Guard is hosting an Open House at the 158th Fighter Wing, Vermont Air National Guard Base in South Burlington on Sept. 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This free event will feature military and civilian aircraft, military vehicles and equipment, demonstrations, and interactive displays from both the Army and Air National Guard.

“Telling the Vermont National Guard story is one of my priorities,” said Maj. Gen. Greg Knight,  Adjutant General for the Vermont National Guard. “Informing and interacting with the community is a critical part of the National Guard. We live and work in our communities. We are Vermonters, and it’s important for us to showcase who we are and what we do. We all deserve this great opportunity to celebrate together.”

Scheduled demonstrations include the Norwich Silent Drill Team, military K-9 exhibitions, army band concerts, a fire department “jaws of life” extraction, and other patriotic musical performances.

In addition to the military displays and demonstrations, there will be both an education and job fair featuring local and regional educational institutions and employers.

“We realize that many community members have never had the opportunity to visit the air base and we don’t want to be the best kept secret in Vermont,” said Col. David Shevchik, 158th Fighter Wing commander. “This open house welcomes the public on their Vermont Guard base to interact with our professionals who are neighbors, colleagues, fellow citizens, and learn about our diverse missions and many opportunities.”

Following the open house, the public is invited to remain for the final event of the day, a 9/11 Remembrance and Retreat Ceremony at the flagpole, 3-3:30 p.m.

“This Open House builds and strengthens community relationships, partnerships and connections – bonds that we recognize and reflect on together especially on Sept. 11, a defining day in our history that forged us together as Americans,” said Shevchik.

This family friendly event will occur rain or shine and will include a kid zone offering a variety of activities for children of all ages as well as food vendors, and covered eating and rest areas.

There is limited parking on base so complimentary shuttle buses will be available from Essex High School. Additional details, including shuttle and event schedules and maps, are online at www.vtng22.com.

For additional information or to participate in the job and education fairs, email meghan.smith.5@us.af.mil.