COMACC sees pride in Team Minot

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  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The commander of Air Combat Command's two-day visit to the 5th Bomb Wing ended on a high note as he addressed Team Minot, thanking the community for its support and the Airmen and families who sacrifice for the very critical missions here.

"I have really enjoyed this chance to visit Minot -- to meet many of you personally and to see you in action," said General William M. Fraser III. "Every one of you adds value to our Air Force -- no matter what you're doing, you make a difference."

The general's visit included a tour of key areas at Minot. He also was able to observe the mission in action while the wing underwent a Nuclear Surety Staff Assistance Visit, or SAV. General Fraser noted the SAV was not an inspection, but an opportunity to show Minot's team effort in accomplishing the mission and then receive feedback on how they might do better in maintaining the standards.

"I saw firsthand just how extremely proud everyone is about what they do," General Fraser said.

The general added he was inspired to see the professionalism and dedication to the mission, and asked Airmen to continue to be committed to the fundamentals, to establishing a solid foundation for team success.

"We are in a marathon, not a sprint," General Fraser told Airmen and civilians at an all-call. "We need to take it day by day and continue to measure ourselves against the standard."

Col. Douglas Cox, 5th Bomb Wing commander, said he was impressed with the wing's hard work in not only showing off the people and facilities, but also simultaneously demonstrating to a staff assistance team their commitment to perform their tasks properly and always with a mindset of compliance.

"The great pride and dedication of our Minot team was very obvious," said Colonel Cox. "Our warriors showed General Fraser the pride they have in their work while also performing well during a SAV. We're lucky to have such a dedicated team."

Colonel Cox said so far, the wing's efforts have been a success.

"That spirit and excellence definitely showed through to General Fraser, and I believe our Nuclear Surety Staff Assistance Visit team will see the same thing."

The Nuclear Surety Staff Assistance Visit continues through Nov. 22. A Nuclear Surety Inspection is expected to follow at a later date.

Chief Master Sgt. Marty Klukas, ACC's command chief, accompanied General Fraser on the visit to Minot. Chief Klukas expressed just how impressed he was with the Airmen at Minot, citing that he was pleased by the wing's positive momentum.

"The warriors here at Minot showed how committed they are to moving forward as a successful team," Chief Klukas said. "They are taking care of each other and dedicated to the credibility of this mission."

General Fraser said he wants Team Minot to know he has confidence in the wing and the base.

"I have no doubt Team Minot has what it takes to succeed."