Minnesota Air National Guard induct new Flight of Honor members

The Minnesota Air National Guard inducted several servicemen and servicewomen in this year’s Flight of Honor. This award recognizes the positive impacts made in our communities by the men and women who served.

The Flight of Honor started only four years ago, and and is still a relatively new achievement. The 148th Fighter Wing Commander Col. Nate Aysta says this award is for veterans who go above and beyond their military service based on what they do for their community.

“Half of it is probably their service while they’re in uniform, but the other half is either outside of service or after they retire,” Col. Aysta said. “They go on to support their communities, their employers, or even support the National Guard, but in a civilian capacity. These people come from the fabric of our community. So these are Twin Ports people. They were born and raised here, and they represent our local community, the best and brightest of our community.”

There are now 33 inducted members in the Minnesota Air National Guard’s Flight of Honor. One of this year’s inductees, is Retired Master Sgt. David Blazevic. He served in the military for 38 years and told the people in attendance he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps.    

“I don’t know if I can fill these footsteps from those that came before me. My CHOP Chief, Chief Master Sergeant Jim Armstrong, General Gatlin, who was here, was an amazing individual. Always had a kind word for even the youngest enlisted guys on base, was a World War II fighter pilot,” Master Sgt. Blazevic said. “Then most of all my dad who received it. General Gatlin and my dad both received this award in 2020 when they first initiated for an international guard program.”

Master Sgt. Blazevic worked on aircrafts for over three decades as a jet engine mechanic. He still loves planes, he even volunteers at the Duluth Air Show. But are there ever days where he still wishes he could fix planes?

“No, I’m retired, but I get to see them fly over the house,” Master Sgt. Blazevic said. “I can wave and say if you’re broke, I don’t have to fix you.”

If you know someone who served in the Minnesota Air National Guard and want to submit them to be nominated for the Flight of Honor next year, you can look here.