The Minuteman Fund's story Published Feb. 4, 2016 By Senior Airman Angelica Perry 157th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs PEASE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.H. -- In 1997, The Minuteman Fund was established with the mission to improve the morale and welfare of members of the New Hampshire Air National Guard. As a seven-year member, Master Sgt. Jeremiah Neault enjoys the opportunity to collaborate with Airmen of all ranks to enrich the lives of military members, their families, and retirees. "Serving on the MMF is a way for all Airmen of the 157th Air Refueling Wing to bring their passion to the forefront to better the lives of others," said Neault. "It's a conduit for taking ideas for positive change, and making them become a reality." The MMF has sponsored countless events over the years, to include the groundbreaking ceremony for the new KC-46A hangar, the Annual Pease 7K Race, the Winter Carnival, and most recently, the Puddledock Pond ice skating event in Portsmouth. "Our main focus is to support the retirees, active duty, and guard members of the 157 ARW and their families," says Master Sgt. Maria Settle, MMF president. "We do so by providing morale trips and events to build on the relationships of our unit, and we also support the monthly Family Deployment Meetings." Trips to New York City, Medieval Manor, and even Celtics games have been organized in the past as well, with much success. "We like to provide fun trips and gatherings at free or subsidized rates as much as possible," explains Neault. "It gives the Airmen and their families a chance to enjoy themselves with little to no financial worry. Neault added, "The families are just as much a part of this base as our Airmen are." "The MMF is a great tool for networking with others that you wouldn't normally interact with", says 10-year member Master Sgt. George Gibson III. "Someone in maintenance doesn't necessarily work with someone from communications, for example. "The MMF gives all Airmen that opportunity to establish those relationships that encourage growth and boosts morale." Meetings occur on the third Thursday of every month, and are often held in the Building 247 conference room. Prospective members, of all ranks and backgrounds are encouraged to bring new and fresh ideas they would be willing to take the lead on, with the help and motivation of existing members. "In here, it's not about your rank, it's about the person," says Neault. "And every person here has a voice that needs to be heard, and we're excited to hear new ideas to keep us moving forward." If you are looking to be a part of a team dedicated to making Pease the best that it can be, then look into becoming a member of the MMF. Inquires can be directed to Master Sgt. Maria Settle, or by getting in contact with your unit representative.