Barksdale AFB Reserve unit passes critical test

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BARSKDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) --  The 307th Bomb Wing, an Air Force Reserve Command unit here, is now nuclear certified following an Initial Nuclear Surety Inspection March 14 - 18.

The 343rd Bomb Squadron and 707th Maintenance Squadron, units under the 307th BW, are tasked to support the 2nd Bomb Wing's nuclear and conventional missions through the auspices of the total force initiative. The 307th BW Airmen went through five days of intense inspection to certify it is qualified to perform the Air Force nuclear mission.

The inspection team, headed by Lt. Col. Hank Jenkins, the team chief, presented the results of the inspection to Col. Jon Ellis, the 307th BW commander, March 18.

"This certification is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our people," Ellis said.  "This historic milestone could not have been reached without their hard work and the great support we received from the 2nd Bomb Wing."

The inspection process, which involved the Air Force Global Strike Command Inspector General's office and the Air Force Inspection Agency, examined five major areas for the 343rd BS and 707th MXS. Inspectors evaluated the management and administration, technical operations, safety, personnel reliability program and nuclear control order procedures.

The successful completion of the INSI is only the first step for the 307th BW. In June, the 2nd BW and the 307th BW is scheduled to accomplish the Defense Nuclear Surety Inspection as an integrated team.

The newly nuclear certified 307th BW is also scheduled to participate in Global Thunder with the 2nd BW and the 5th BW from Minot Air Force Base, N.D, in October.

(Courtesy of 307th Bomb Wing Public Affairs)