509th Bomb Wing to join AFGSC

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Torey Griffith
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The 509th Bomb Wing will join several other bomber and missile wings when it transfers from Air Combat Command to Air Force Global Strike Command, Monday.

"This transition to Global Strike Command is a step toward reinvigorating the Air Force nuclear enterprise," said Brig. Gen. Robert E. Wheeler, 509th Bomb Wing Commander. "The 509th Bomb Wing is dedicated to provide combat ready forces when called upon."

As stewards of the majority of America's nuclear deterrent forces, the Air Force has made that reinvigoration one of its top goals. The AFGSC's strategic intent is to create a single command structure, with clear lines of authority to maintain excellence in America's nuclear enterprise, according to General Wheeler.

The transfer consolidates all Air Force assets - missles and bombers -- with a nuclear mission under one command. Air Force Global Strike Command provides combat ready forces to conduct nuclear deterrence and global strike operations in support of the President and combatant commanders.

The AFGSC also oversees the missile wings at Malmstrom AFB, Mont., F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo., and Minot AFB, N.D. The 576th Flight Test Squadron at Vandenburg AFB, Calif., and the 625th Strategic Operations Squadron at Offutt AFB, Neb., also report to GSC.

"Our expectation for the command is high, as it focuses on precision, reliability, and compliance on all nuclear matters," Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz said. "Lt. Gen. Frank G. Klotz will lead the new command fulfilling his role as the steward of the Air Force's contribution to America's deterrent posture and, more importantly, lead the Airmen who are the core of the Air Force's nuclear enterprise."

General Klotz, who previously served as assistant vice chief of staff and director of Air Force staff, was nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate as the AFGSC commander.