Congressman briefed on center's nuke role

  • Published
  • By Susan A. Romano
  • AFTAC Public Affairs
PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  U.S. Representative Bill Posey paid a visit to the Air Force Technical Applications Center here April 11 to receive an update on the center’s nuclear treaty monitoring role and its involvement in recent global events.

Posey, accompanied by his District Director Patrick Gavin and Director of Community Relations Rob Medina, met with Col. Steven M. Gorksi, AFTAC’s commander and members of his staff for an in-depth mission briefing and to bring the congressman up to speed on AFTAC’s capabilities regarding past and potential worldwide nuclear detonations. The congressman was briefed on AFTAC’s scientific contributions to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action as well as underground disturbances the center detected in the vicinity of North Korea in January and September 2016.

“It is always a pleasure to visit AFTAC,” said Posey. “This is the first time I’ve been able to tour the new building since it opened (in 2014), and I enjoy the opportunity to speak to the Airmen who perform this vital mission. Everyone should be very proud of the work they’re undertaking for our nation. It’s invaluable.”

After the briefings, the congressional delegation toured the center, which included stops at AFTAC’s Innovation Lab, Operations Floor and Ciambrone Radiochemistry Laboratory.

“AFTAC shares an incredible rapport with our elected officials,” said Col. Steven M. Gorski, AFTAC commander. “Their support is invaluable to us as we execute our global nuclear deterrence mission. AFTAC Airmen and their family members are integral parts of the Space Coast community, as well as Rep. Posey’s constituents. His visit gave us the opportunity to showcase our mission and illustrate our involvement with the local community. It is a great partnership, and we appreciate the time the congressman and his staff took out of their schedules to meet with us.”