This Sunday, Camp Ripley welcomes the public for their 2023 Open House, allowing them to interact with the employees, service members, and families of the Minnesota National Guard during this biennial event.
“Camp Ripley is a staple of our State, and we could not do it without the support of the public, our employees, and service members,” said Army Lt. Col Troy Fink, Camp Ripley’s Garrison Commander. “We welcome the opportunity to visit with the public and show off Camp Ripley Training Center so they can see the exceptional work and training here.” The Camp Ripley Open House will allow the public to interact with service members to learn about the various weapons such as sniper rifles, semi-automatic, and machine guns on display.
Camp Ripley will also have several models of military vehicles, including the new M109A7 artillery howitzer, the M1 Abrams tank, and many more on display. The public will be able to view and explore the Guard’s helicopters. Camp Ripley’s Open House will offer families the experience of riding in a Highly Mobile multi-heeled vehicle with a service member, otherwise known as a Humvee. Representatives from various veterans’ organizations, community outreach programs, and organizations that support families and service members will be present. The 34th Red Bull Infantry Division Rock Band will provide free daily entertainment. Various food and drink vendors will be available, and there will be a classic car show to visit throughout the Open House.
At 2 p.m., the military vehicles on display will turn on their engines, and there will be a vehicle parade as the event concludes. “This is always an incredible event,” said Army Command Sgt. Maj. Rian Hofstad, Camp Ripley’s Garrison Command Sergeant Major. “Our service members cherish the opportunity to be in front of the people they serve.
We look forward to the Open House this year, and we have a lot of new equipment, vendors, and opportunities for the public to experience alongside their Minnesota National Guard service members.”
Editor’s Note: Media members are invited to attend the event on Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at Camp Ripley Training Center, 15000 MN-115, Little Falls, Minn. Media can RSVP to Army Capt—William Hermanson at 507-616-6536 or william.t.hermanson.mil@army.mil. Valid Identification is required for entry onto Camp Ripley.
About the Minnesota National Guard –
Established in 1856 and headquartered in St. Paul, the Minnesota National Guard has more than 13,000 Soldiers and Airmen who serve in 58 communities across the state. The Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen of the Minnesota National Guard are ‘Always Ready’ to fight the nation’s wars, protect the country, respond to state emergencies, and contribute to local communities. For more information about the Minnesota National Guard, visit https://MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil.
