COMACC visits Whiteman

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Dilia Ayala
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo., --  Commander of Air Combat Command, Gen. William M. Fraser III, visited Whiteman early this week to observe the 498th Munitions Maintenance Group activation ceremony Oct. 25.

During his two-day visit, General Fraser and his wife, Bev, also took time to meet with Team Whiteman and give a "big picture" perspective of issues affecting the command and its people as Whiteman prepares for its transition to Air Force Global Strike Command.

"These changes are among several, including the creation of the Air Force Global Strike Command, that provide the Air Force a streamlined capability which enables greater readiness," General Fraser said. "Our nuclear arsenal is the ultimate backstop of our nation's strategic defense, and these units ensure Whiteman is prepared and ready for this responsibility."

As these changes take place, the general said he is confident all players in the move are ready.

"ACC is ready and so is Air Force Global Strike Command, as we march towards that transition," he said. "(Air Force Global Strike Command) continues to stand up as they build both capability and capacity as their numbers come up. We are on the right path to make sure it is a smooth transition, not only to (AFGSC), but when you talk about weapons as we transition that piece of the mission into (AFMC), both are on track and looking very good, and that is due to the professionalism and excellence of the fine Airmen here at Whiteman."

The activation of the 498th MUMG is in-line with critical steps Air Force officials are taking in the integration of all sustainment functions within Air Force Materiel Command, providing enhanced oversight and standardization for nuclear weapons maintenance, storage, accountability and control.

About 12 people transferred from the 498th MUMG headquarters at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., to Whiteman, to give group leaders important exposure to bomber operations. Additionally, this transfer allows bomber experts to interface with Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center and MUMG leaders on a daily basis.

With the impending transition to AFGSC in February, the general discussed Whiteman's focus for 2009 and the upcoming year.

"The focus of the wing continues to be on the mission," General Fraser said. "The mission at hand is both conventional as well as a nuclear deterrent mission. Whitman continues to be, as we called it many years ago, 'a crown jewel' for our Air Force. The B-2 Spirit and the men and women who serve here continue to lead the way in everything they do. I'm proud of each and every person serving here at Whiteman. Thank you for everything you are doing."

General Fraser also congratulated Team Whiteman on a successful Nuclear Operational Readiness Inspection.

"Let me say what a pleasure it's been to be back here at Whiteman and to meet some of the fine Airmen we have assigned here," he said. "It's been many years since I've been here, but to come back here and see the great job that everybody is doing has been a true pleasure and an honor.

"I want to offer my heart-felt thanks and congratulations on the excellent inspection that was recently completed," General Fraser continued.

The general and his wife concluded their visit with a tour of various base agencies and the B-2.