05.06.16

Hoeven Helps Dedicate Display at Dakota Territory Air Museum

MINOT, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today joined federal, state and local officials in dedicating a new display at the Dakota Territory Air Museum in honor of the 5th Fighter Interceptor Squadron (FIS). The new outdoor display features three aircraft of the type flown by the 5th FIS out of Minot Air Force Base (MAFB). The squadron, known as the “Spitten Kittens,” was a part of the MAFB from 1960 to 1988. The display includes a Lockheed T-33 (which was part of the 5th FIS), a Convair F-106 and a McDonnell Douglas F-15. Senator Hoeven’s office helped the museum acquire the F-15 on loan from the U.S. Air Force Museum.

“The history of Minot and its base are intertwined, and it is fitting that we should commemorate their past while also supporting their future,” Hoeven said. “The ‘Spitten Kittens’ are an important part of Minot Air Force Base’s history and did a tremendous job protecting our nation from long-range bombers. This squadron left a lasting mark on the community by leaving their Lynx kitten mascots at the Roosevelt Park Zoo when they moved. We are here today to honor the 5th FIS and the important work they did for our nation and this community. At the same time, we recognize the base and our service members’ ongoing contributions to the community and our country’s security.”

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