Planning for Ellsworth 70th Anniversary events under way Published Aug. 23, 2011 By Steven J. Merrill 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- Planning has begun on a variety of events to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Ellsworth Air Force Base and the 25th anniversary of the B-1 at the historic South Dakota base. Tentative events will include static displays of historic 28th Bomb Wing aircraft, a golf tournament, and a military ball to close the celebration. "Since its humble beginning as a training location for B-17 Flying Fortress crews in Jan. 2, 1942, Ellsworth Air Force Base has grown into a vital role in our national security with a proud heritage of long range strike operations," said Col. Mark Weatherington, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "While the facilities and mission of the base have changed over time to meet the nation's needs, the dedication and commitment to excellence by our Airmen and their families remains as strong as it ever has been." Other key milestones to be celebrated as part of the events in 2012 include the 65th anniversary of the establishment of the U.S. Air Force as an independent military service and the 70th anniversary of the Doolittle Raid on Tokyo. Three of the original squadrons that participated in the historic mission are now assigned to Ellsworth. Additional information on the events will be provided as they become available.