509th Bomb Wing once again delivers superior performances during no-notice NSI

  • Published
  • By Capt. Matthew Miller
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Reinvigorating the nuclear enterprise is the Air Force Chief of Staff's top priority, and something the men and women of the 509th Bomb Wing take to heart. 

Air Combat Command's Inspector General is the latest believer in the 509th's ability in performing nuclear operations as their observations during the wing's second no-notice Nuclear Surety Inspection in 2009 once again validates the wing's capability.

"Nuclear surety inspections demand the absolute highest standards of compliance, accountability and performance," said Col. Leonard Moskal, ACC IG Team Chief during the March 15-23 NSI. "Nuclear surety inspections are an intense and demanding event with no room for error. Historically, they're extremely difficult to pass. The no-notice nature of the inspection validates the unit's readiness at any time."

"Results like this are the reflection of motivated, trained Airmen and engaged leadership at all levels. It took the focus of the entire team at every level, whether you performed in execution or in support," said Brig. Gen. Garrett Harencak, 509th Bomb Wing commander. "And it didn't start when the team arrived. Our Airmen have been giving their best for quite some time now.

"This is the second no-notice this year and the third NSI in the past 270 days, and these Airmen continue to perform with perfection," said General Harencak. "I couldn't be more proud of the focus, spirit and professionalism displayed by Whiteman Airmen."

An NSI is designed to evaluate a unit's readiness to execute nuclear operations and takes place every 6 to 18 months. 

Areas evaluated on the NSI included technical operations, management and administration, security, logistics movement, safety, maintenance facilities and supply support.

During the out brief, Colonel Moskal lauded the units "professionalism, discipline and attitude about nuclear surety, nuclear operations and the nuclear mission."

The inspection looked at 14 key areas and graded the wing's ability to be caretakers of an unrivaled combat power. Thirty-six teams and 47 Airmen were recognized as superior performers during the inspection.

"It is important to note that these inspections are extremely detailed and demand the highest standards of performance," said Colonel Moskal.

For example, even something such as improper tire pressure on one of the transport vehicles could result in an overall unsatisfactory grade.

"Regardless, there is no room for error in dealing with the nuclear enterprise of the United States Air Force," said Colonel Moskal. "We must meet the highest standards of safety, security and reliability. Anything less than full compliance is unacceptable."

"Our country demands we continuously demonstrate we're ready to prosecute our mission," said General Harencak. 

"This milestone event sends a strong message to our adversaries--the 509th Bomb Wing is ready to hunt down and destroy America's enemies - anytime, anywhere!"