2026 Heritage Banquet & Dinner
2026-05-16 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Flying Cloud Hangar, Flying Cloud Airport - Hangar #10100, Eden Prairie, MN, 55347, United States
The Annual Heritage Banquet & Dinner
The Significance of the Heritage Banquet & Dinner
The annual Heritage (aka Founders’ Day) Banquet & Dinner stands is an annual celebration and remembrance of the founding of the United States Air Force in 1947 (USAF), and the establishment of the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in 1954 by President Dwight Eisenhower. The day serves as a beacon of tradition drawing together alumni, current cadets, new appointees and parents. The evening is where the past, present and the future converge, sharing memories, achievements and aspirations.
A Gathering of the Minds
This event provides a rare opportunity for graduates to reconnect, share their journeys, and inspire the next generation. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of pride and nostalgia as stories of old are recounted, and new ones are born.
Honoring the Past
The dinner is a recognized tradition paying homage to the USAF and USAFA‘s rich histories. It is a moment to reflect on the achievements of those who have come before and to acknowledge the contributions that have helped shape the present. Presentation speakers have included: USAFA Superintendent, USAFA Commandant, United States Space Force (USSF) Commander, Commanding General of Air Material Command, and other distinguished USAF officers that have critical mission milestones and pivotal moments to define the journey of both the USAF and USAFA.
Welcoming the Future
We begin with the introduction of the new appointees who are welcomed into the fold with warmth and enthusiasm. These individuals represent the future with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Their presence is a testament to our ongoing commitment to excellence and progress.
The Experience
The Venue and Ambiance
The venue is chosen with great care reflecting the grandeur and importance befitting such a prestigious event. From historic halls to modern hotel events centers, each setting is meticulously prepared to provide an unforgettable experience. This year, the Twin Cities Area Association of Graduates (TCA AOG) and the USAFA Minnesota Parents Club will be celebrating the event at the immaculately prepared hanger at Flying Cloud airport, as we have done in the past 4 years. The transformation of a hangar to an elegant setting is done with finesse: the tables are adorned with fine linens, there are exquisite center pieces, and the flickering candlelight adds to the grandeur of the evening.
The Culinary Delights
No dinner would be complete without a superb dining experience, and the Heritage Banquet & Dinner does not disappoint. Guests are treated to a culinary menu crafted to delight the senses.
Building Connections
The Heritage Banquet & Dinner is more than just a social event; it is a networking opportunity. Graduates, Cadets and new appointees alike have the chance to connect with leaders from all fields of life that can lead to collaborations and career advancements.
Sharing Knowledge
Conversations during dinner often delve into meaningful discussions with everyone having an opportunity to share their insights, experiences and ask questions. All this interaction fosters an exchange of knowledge that builds a sense of community, mutual growth, and is enriching everyone who attends.
Mentorship
A beautiful part of the Heritage Banquet & Dinner is the opportunity for mentorship. Experienced alumni often take new appointees under their wing, offering guidance and support as they navigate their careers.
The Impact
Fostering Alumni Engagement
The Heritage Banquet & Dinner plays a significant role in fostering alumni engagement. By bringing together graduates of all generations, it strengthens the bond between the institution and the alumni network. This connection is vital for the continued success and growth of the institution.
Encouraging Philanthropy
The event also encourages philanthropy, and we do so with the opportunity to participate in the silent auction presented by our unheralded USAFA Minnesota Parents Club and the TCA AOG. Proceeds from the silent auction provide funding for scholarships and other initiatives that support the institution’s mission.
Inspiring Future Generations
Perhaps the most lasting impact of the evening is the inspiration it provides to future generations. Seeing accomplishments of those who have walked the same halls and shared the same dreams can be a powerful motivator for current cadets and new appointees. It reminds them of what is possible and encourages them to pursue their goals with passion and determination.
Conclusion
The annual Heritage Banquet & Dinner is more than just an event; it is a celebration of legacy, achievement and potential. It bridges the past with the future, honoring the contributions of alumni while welcoming the new graduates and new appointees into the fold. Through its rich traditions and meaningful connections, it fosters a sense of community and pride that endures long after the evening has ended. In every toast, every handshake, and every shared story, the spirit of the United States Air Force, the United States Space Force, and the United States Air Force Academy live on through the alumni that bind them, inspiring all who attend to carry its legacy forward.
SO, ATTENTION IN THE AREA, ATTENTION IN AREA
Mark your calendars, for May 16th, 2026 at 1700, we shall all gather in the Guider Hangar at Flying Cloud Airport in Eden Prairie, MN to continue the legacy of The Long Blue Line. Come and enjoy this spectacular event!
Register Here: https://cvent.me/XYaYee

West Metro – Service Academy Alumni Breakfast
2026-07-03 07:00 - 08:00 | Marriot West St. Louis Park, 9960 Wayzata Boulevard, Minneapolis, MN, 55426, United States
June 5th is the next opportunity to network with Service Academy grads in Minnesota. This West Metro – Service Academy Alumni Breakfast occurs the 1st Friday of every month.
If you are planning on attending, an RSVP is appreciated to roughly know how many are going to be there for space reservations. Thank you!
Location: Kip’s Authentic Irish Pub (952-367-5070) in the Marriott West St Louis Park.
“Take Seats” for the breakfast will be at 0700 hours with the goal to be finished with the formal portion by 0745 hours. The official portion will be followed by informal networking and friendship building. Come early and enjoy more fellowship!
Also, please tell a classmate, company-mate and/or fellow service academy grad about this event! Overall coordination is done by the West Point Society of Minnesota.
Questions? Please contact Doug Baden, USMA ‘88, dabaden@gmail.com

East Metro - Service Academy Alumni Breakfast
2026-07-10 07:00 - 08:00 | Woodbury Cafe, 803 Bielenberg Drive, Woodbury, MN, 55125, United States
You are cordially invited to network at the East Metro – Service Academy Alumni Breakfast which takes place on the 2nd Friday of every month (rain or shine) at 0700. The location is “The Woodbury Cafe” in Woodbury. Orders are placed at approximately 0705 followed by the formal/introduction segment of the gathering. Afterwards, everyone is welcome to stay and continue to visit and/or network. Overall coordination is done by the West Point Society of Minnesota.
Questions? Please contact Doug Baden, USMA ‘88, dabaden@gmail.com

TCA-AOG Social Gathering
2026-07-18 16:00 - 19:00 | Lake Ann Park, 1456 W 78th St, Chanhassen, MN, United States
There is no July 2026 meeting at the VFW. Our Social gathering will be at the USAFA Parents Club Picnic at Lake Anne on Saturday, July 18th, 4-7pm. The RSVP link will be posted soon.
The next “regular” meeting will be Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
All monthly Board Meetings are open to all Alumni & guests, and Tuesday, August 18th is the next gathering for all Minnesota USAFA graduates at the Richfield VFW. What a great opportunity to come and meet fellow graduates during the 30 minute Social Hour which commences at 1700 hours. You can order a delicious bite to eat in addition to a delicious beverage to enjoy. The official meeting commences with the pledge of allegiance at 1730 hours, and business typically concludes by 1830 hours. We hope to see you there, GO FALCONS!

Quarterly Speaker Series: July 2026
2026-07-22 11:00 - 13:00 | Richfield-Fred Babcock VFW, 6715 Lake Shore Dr S,, Richfield, MN
What: The story of Les Schrenk, Minnesota’s own WWII hero (as told by Mike Johnson)
When: Wednesday, 22 July 2026. 1100 social/lunch; 1130 speaker presentation.
Where: Fred Babcock VFW Post 5555, Richfield, MN.
We planned to have the notable WWII / 8th AF Veteran and POW, Les Schrenk, speak on March 11th. Unfortunately, he passed away at the age of 102 on March 3rd, 2026. Although he is gone, we are welcoming his longtime friend and travel buddy, Mike Johnson, to share the amazing story of Les Schrenk. Mark your calendars for an inspiring presentation about Schrenk’s remarkable veteran’s story of bailing out of his aircraft, being captured by the Germans, and surviving in a POW camp.
Sign-up here to help us get a head count (Coming soon)
Come at 11:00 and order lunch, or just come for the speaker which will start at 11:30. There is no cost to attend.

Monthly TCA-AOG Meeting
2026-08-18 17:00 - 18:30 | Richfield-Fred Babcock VFW, 6715 Lake Shore Dr S,, Richfield, MN
All monthly Board Meetings are open to all Alumni & guests, and Tuesday, August 18th is the next gathering for all USAFA graduates living and visiting Minnesota.
The Richfield VFW is centrally located, and the meeting is an incredible opportunity to come, see & talk with fellow graduates during the 30 minute Social Hour which commences at 1700 hours. You can order a delicious bite to eat from the extensive menu in addition to enjoying a refreshing beverage. The official meeting commences with the pledge of allegiance at 1730 hours, and business typically concludes in 1 hour by 1830 hours. We hope to see you there! GO FALCONS!
