For Minot Air Force Base personnel serving far from family, a plane ticket can mean time with cherished loved ones, a seat at the family table, or a long-awaited hug.

That’s why Operation Homebound – our ongoing initiative to raise funds to purchase airline tickets for first-term Airmen to travel home each November and December – is so important. And with holiday season travel being booked now, we’re asking our community to help make those trips possible for more Airmen in 2026.

Last year, community generosity helped more than 100 Airmen travel home. Local businesses and individuals raised $91,698 for Operation Homebound in 2025.

To understand the profound impact of the Minot community's support of Operation Homebound, it's best to hear directly from the men and women — and their families — who have benefitted from the program:

“My grandparents are getting older and starting to have some serious health issues. It was wonderful to be able to spend this holiday season with them, especially without the added financial burden.”

“Our daughter surprised us completely! Seeing her so unexpectedly was surreal. We had just spent our first Christmas without her and were elated to be able to ring in the new year with her here at home. Spirits were instantly high, and we caught up on hugs, kisses, and stories. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.”

“What a blessing to have been picked for this program.”

To everyone who has supported Operation Homebound this year or in past years: thank you for giving the Airmen of Team Minot the opportunity to travel home!

As 2026 enters its final months, your donation to Operation Homebound can help provide airline tickets to even more Airmen this November and December. Contributions can be dropped off at the MACEDC office or made instantly via Venmo.

To learn more, visit our website, contact the Minot Area Chamber EDC at 701-852-6000, or email keli@minotchamberedc.com.