MINOT, ND (KXNET) — The Magic City, which is home to the Minot Air Force Base (MAFB), is one of three regions in the country that has been named a 2025 Great American Defense Community. The Association of Defense Communities (ADC) announced the three recipients of this recognition at the Commu nities National Summit earlier this month. The two other communities recognized this year are Greater Buckley Region in Colorado for their support of Buckley Space Force Base, and Yuma, Arizona for their support of Marine Corps Air Station. “We’re excited to welcome Minot, North Dakota as a 2025 Great American Defense community,” ADC President Karen Holt said in a press release. “We are especially honored to recognize Minot’s unwavering commitment in educating stakeholders on nuclear deterrence and national security.” ADC created the Great American Defense Communities program in 2016 to celebrate regions that support military installations and are dedicated to improving the quality of life for military. Minot Family YMCA hosts month-long triathlon “North Dakota is committed to being the most military-friendly state in the nation, and this recognition of Minot as a Great American Defense Community is proof of that commitment,” Gov. Kelly Armstrong said. “The dedicated airmen of the 91st Missile Wing and 5th Bomb Wing, along with the support personnel from the North Dakota Air National Guard’s 219th Security Forces Squadron, play a crucial role in safeguarding our nation and are an incredibly important part of the Minot community." The ADC will spotlight Minot throughout the year, and its leaders have plans to travel to the Peace Garden State and celebrate with the Minot community this summer. The Magic City will also be featured at the ADC Innovation Forum in Monterey, California at the end of October. "Minot Air Force Base is not just a military installation — it’s a driving force in our community,” expressed Pete Hankla, Task Force 21 Chair. “With a $651 million economic impact, its presence strengthens our local businesses, schools, and workforce, while its mission strengthens our national security. This recognition as a Great American Defense Community is proof of that commitment." 50 communities have been chosen in 10 years for this honor across all branches of the military. Communities are chosen through a nomination process based on building efforts, such as educational and employment opportunities, and support and collaboration with neighboring military installations. To learn more about ADC, visit defensecommunities.org. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less