Minnesota Air National Guard inducts 11 service members into 2022 “Flight of Honor”

Today the Minnesota Air National Guard honored 11 individuals by induction into the 2022 Flight of Honor at a ceremony held at the 148^th Fighter Wing. “The Flight of Honor” is a celebration of those who demonstrated uncommon achievement or gave their life while serving in the Minnesota Air National Guard.

“This is a way to recognize our people. So today we’re inducting 11 people who have made some outstanding contributions to the Minnesota National Guard and our nation. And we’re recognizing them for what they’ve done through the items that they’ve done. And to be able to put their name on a plaque is quite special,” says Major General Shawn Manke.

Military personnel who served at the 133^rd Airlift Wing or 148^th Fighter Wing can be nominated and inducted to the Flight of Honor based on heroism or distinguished professional achievement and service. Family members from spouses to sons and daughters were there to take part.

“This is a class act up here. And this flight of honor is truly tremendous for our family and for us to have our father honored really means a lot to us. And I just want to thank the committee 148 for doing that for us,” says Jeff Vervel, a retired Lieutenant Colonel.

The Inductees for the 2022 Flight of Honor are:

• Brig. Gen. (Ret) Raymond T. Klosowski

• Brig. Gen. (Ret) John P. Silliman

• Lt. Col. (Ret) Darlene (Darcy) A. Anderson

• Lt. Col. (Ret) Henry T. Capiz (Deceased)

• Lt. Col. (Ret) Kou B. Vang

• Capt. James L. Verville (Deceased)

• Chief Master Sgt. (Ret) James A. Armstrong (Deceased)

• Chief Master Sgt. (Ret) Steve P. Campos

• Chief Master Sgt. (Ret) Bruce D. Graham

• Master Sgt. George R. Ion (Deceased)

• Staff Sgt. Thomas W. Lyons