F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- F.E. Warren Air Force Base opened its gates to host the annual Fort D.A. Russell Days July 24-25. This open house brought the military and civilian communities together to celebrate and learn about the base’s rich history.
On July 4, 1867, the railroad established its mountain region headquarters at Crow Creek Crossing, later known as Cheyenne. On the same day, the U.S. Cavalry moved from its temporary headquarters to what became known as Fort D.A. Russell. As a result, 1867 was the beginning of a city and a fort, and both have grown together over the years.
“Heritage to me means learning about those who came before me,” said Daniek Long, base museum director. “History has a tendency to repeat itself, and it’s great to study people in the past so we know what’s possible in the future.”
Fort D.A. Russell Days hosted a multitude of different events and activities including axe throwing, stick-horse racing for children as well as reenactments and a period-style dance.
“Heritage and history is important to us as a people,” said Scott Johns, a reenactor who participated in Fort D.A. Russell Days. “Coming out here and actually performing on the base that all that history and heritage comes from adds that extra something to what we’re doing out here.”
Fort. D.A. Russell Days was made possible by the help of many Airmen across the base as well as the volunteers who came out to help spread the history of the base. Many people came out to show their support.
While Fort D.A. Russell Days can’t last forever, the mission of the United States Air Force and the 90th Missile Wing will continue daily.