History

Our History

The Westover Galaxy Community Council was officially formed in 1989 with a shared mission: to strengthen the bond between Westover Air Reserve Base and the surrounding communities of Western Massachusetts.

Built on the idea that strong community relationships create stronger missions, the Council brought together local business leaders, veterans, and civic-minded citizens who believed in supporting the men, women, and purpose of Westover.

From the very beginning, the Council became known as Westover’s “link with the community,” helping local residents better understand the critical role the base plays both nationally and economically throughout the region.

Through advocacy, partnership, and service, the Council worked to share Westover’s mission while building lasting relationships between military personnel and the communities they call home.

From Celebration to Service

In 1990, the Galaxy Community Council played a major role in celebrating Westover’s 50th Anniversary. The year was filled with memorable events, including a military ball, a hangar dedication ceremony, and a spectacular anniversary airshow that brought excitement and pride to the region.

But history quickly shifted from celebration to service.

Only days after the enormously successful 1990 airshow—which attracted more than 750,000 visitors—Iraq invaded Kuwait, and Westover ARB immediately became a hub of activity during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

As military personnel mobilized and families faced uncertainty, the Galaxy Community Council stepped forward alongside organizations such as the American Red Cross and the USO.

Together, they supported operations at the passenger terminal, coordinated donations, comforted families, and ultimately welcomed home thousands of returning troops.

Those efforts solidified the Council’s place as part of the extended Westover family.

Building Community Partnerships

In 1991, the Council accepted another tremendous challenge: helping organize the 1992 Great New England Air Show.

Working side-by-side with Westover personnel, the Council strengthened its reputation as a trusted community partner capable of bringing together military precision and community pride on a massive scale.

That same spirit of partnership continued with the launch of Commerce ’92, a business-to-business showcase hosted inside Westover’s hangars.

The event attracted hundreds of companies and highlighted the base’s vital role in the regional economy, demonstrating how military and civilian communities could grow stronger together.

Our Mission Continues

Over the years, the Galaxy Community Council has continued fostering relationships not only within Western Massachusetts, but across the nation—welcoming counterparts from other military installations, learning about missions throughout the country, and advocating for the continued importance of Westover Air Reserve Base.

Today, the Council remains committed to supporting Westover, its mission, and the military families who serve, while strengthening the connection between the base and the community that proudly stands behind it.