SecAF visits Whiteman

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Miguel Lara III
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James visited here Nov. 7 - 9, to engage with civic leaders and meet with the Airmen of the world’s only B-2 stealth bomber base.

While at Whiteman Air Force Base, James met with leadership from the 509th Bomb Wing, the 131st Bomb Wing, the 442nd Fighter Wing and other tenant units to see firsthand the Total Force Integration model Whiteman AFB has established and to gain a better understanding of Whiteman’s commitment to the strategic deterrence mission.

James also had the opportunity to fly in a B-2 Spirit during a training mission and experienced Whiteman’s strategic deterrence capability up-close.

“It was an amazing experience.” James said. “I was able to witness all of the aspects that it took to make this training mission happen and am thankful for the opportunity.”

James also made a visit to the Military and Veterans Success Center at the University of Central Missouri to learn more about the Whiteman Advantage program and see the unique relationship between Whiteman and the local community.

“You all are very blessed to be in a community that supports you to the degree they do, which was loud and clear here,” James said. “You have a lot of committed people who are committed not only to you, but our military at large, and to serving our veterans.”

James concluded her visit with an all call and stressed the importance of the nuclear enterprise and global strike mission, while expressing her gratitude and support to the Total Force Airmen in attendance.

“Nowhere have I seen in our United States Air Force a better exemplar of our Total Force,” James said. “Our active-duty working with our National Guard, Reserves, and civilians and of course the bedrock of everything we do is our families, who stand behind us at all times.”

Prior to departing, James thanked the Airmen for their hospitality and reminded them the priority of the Air Force is to take care of the people first.

“What you do is integral to the total fight, to the total picture, the deterrence, reassurance, as well as to the humanitarian assistance.” James said. “Our priority is the people. We are dedicated to taking care of you.”