Burlington, VT- In recognition of their service to Chittenden county, as well as their contribution to our local economy, the Burlington Business Association (BBA) is excited to recognize the Vermont Air National Guard (VTANG) at the 2017 BBA Annual Dinner. This will be the first time the BBA has included a special recognition of this nature.

VTANG has been an integral part our area for 70 years and employs more than 1000 men and women, two-thirds of this staff are part time and work in full time jobs across Vermont, New England and the nation. In 2013 the Air Force displayed their confidence in our “Green Mountain Boys” when they announced their intention to base a squadron of F-35’s at VTANG’s facility in South Burlington.

Last fall, the Vermont Air National Guard once again answered the call to serve our country, when 400+ guard members were deployed to numerous locations across the globe, the majority of which went to the Middle East. The decision was made in part based on the 158th Fighter Wing’s reputation as being one of the most proficient and prepared in the nation.

“The Air Guard has had a massive impact in our area. Especially in light of their most recent deployments, the BBA wanted VTANG, which is a vital part of our local economy, to be recognized,” said BBA Executive Director Kelly Devine.

Major General Steven Cray, The Adjutant General for the State of Vermont will be accepting the award on behalf of VTANG at the BBA’s 39th Annual Dinner, taking place on April 6th at the Burlington Hilton. “On behalf of the Vermont Air National Guard, I would like to thank the Burlington Business Association for this Special Recognition” said Major General Cray, “I am very proud of the hard work and dedication our Airmen show their local communities, State and Nation each and every day.  We are one military family and we couldn’t do what we do without the support of families, employers and communities.”

The Burlington Business Association, founded in 1978, is a non-profit, non-political membership organization with 200 business and nonprofit members. Our mission is to enhance and promote the economic vitality of Burlington, Vermont, and to assure that the City of Burlington continues as the cultural, social, political, educational and economic center of northwestern Vermont. Call 802-863-1175 or visit www.www.bbavt.org for more information.