Leadership Great Falls tour sparks interest in community, Malmstrom

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Collin Schmidt
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  A Leadership Great Falls class toured Malmstrom Air Force Base April 17 in an effort to increase the awareness and understanding of the base mission, while building stronger ties within the Great Falls community.

LGF classes serve as building blocks for community leaders to get a first-hand look at the businesses, organizations and groups that make up the framework of their communities and allows participants to connect with other members in an effort to build professional and lasting ties.

During the tour, more than 30 Great Falls leaders had the opportunity to visit a missile maintenance trainer, armory, missile procedures trainer, fitness center and dining facility.

"Not all the community members realize what these Airmen do at Malmstrom," said Joann Gogo, Great Falls Chamber of Commerce membership director. "It gives us an opportunity to see what these men and women do on a daily basis. Having a program like this is also very beneficial because it shows these Airmen that the community welcomes them.

"Here at the Chamber of Commerce, we know the Airmen at Malmstrom put hundreds of hours of volunteer time into helping the city of Great Falls," she continued. "We want those community members who don't realize this to see the effort that is made and build a stronger bond between both parties."

While visiting, tour participants spoke with Airmen about their careers in the Air Force and learned some of the missions they are tasked with accomplishing. After visiting each section of the tour, Great Falls leaders also had the chance to speak with Team Malmstrom members about what they do within the community. From boutique owners to hospital managers, every participant took turns sharing about their respective businesses and career fields while answering any questions Airmen had.

"This tour has been very illuminating," said Paul Gore, University of Utah director of institutional research and associate professor of educational psychology. "I've learned quite a bit about [Malmstrom's mission] and have also been able to dispel a lot of what is seen on television and in the movies. It's been a great learning experience.

"It was really cool to see some of the things the Airmen work with here on base," he continued. "Everyone seems very interested in what this tour has to offer. The people I am with today come from a variety of backgrounds and everyone seems to be asking a lot of questions. The information that we have been given has been really educational and I think we are all going to walk away from this tour with a better understanding of what happens on this facility. For the community, I believe the connection has been made and will continue to grow stronger."

For more information on upcoming classes, contact the Great Falls Chamber of Commerce at (406) 761-4434.