"America's Ace" celebrates mission, legacy after 66 years

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Korry Leverett
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  More than 500 people attended Malmstrom's annual Air Force ball at the 3-Bay Hangar Sept. 20. The night's events reflected on the heritage of Malmstrom, with historic Air Force displays, and the mission it carries out each day. Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Timothy McMahon, former 20th Air Force commander and 341st Missile Wing commander, was the guest speaker for the evening's festivities and captured the importance in his remarks to the audience. 

"Tonight, three proud units join together to commemorate the 61st anniversary of the Air Force," General McMahon said, referring to the 341st Missile Wing, the 819th RED HORSE Squadron and the 120th Fighter Wing of Montana Air National Guard. "Each of these units has a vital mission, a rich history, and each is proudly supported by the citizens of Great Falls." 

The general continued by reminding the audience that Malmstrom has been in continuous service since Sept. 15, 1942 defending this nation. Not only is it the 66th anniversary of the 341st Missile Wing but September also marks the 61st birthday of the United States Air Force. 

"Throughout its history, the 341st Missile Wing, America's Ace, have deterred violence at all levels, throughout the crisis that was the cold war...and each day since," he said. "Tonight, we celebrate the legacy of those thousands who have served here before us and who struggled to build your reputation over millions of dispatches to the field." 

The evening's events featured comments from multiple senior leaders at Malmstrom, music from The Notables, a jazz ensemble from the Heartland of America Band, stationed at Offutt AFB, Neb., and dancing that lasted well into the evening hours.
The event truly captured the essence of a rich history at Malmstrom and the important mission the Airmen 24 execute hours a day, 365 days a year. 

"The evening truly was a success...but that was because of the dozens of volunteers who participated in the planning and setup," said 1st Lt Robert Wray, 12th Missile Squadron and Air Force Ball Association director of operations. "The evening took months to plan and prepare for. Without the dedication of the volunteers who worked long into the evening and morning hours it wouldn't have been as successful as it was." 

After his final thanks for being invited to attend Malmstrom's Air Force Ball, general McMahon left the audience with one final piece of advice, "be proud of what you do for the Nation. Do it well...do it safely, and take care of each other."