Whiteman Air Force Base gains 2 units

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KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (AFNS) --  Air Force leaders continue to reinvigorate the nuclear enterprise, adding two new Air Force Materiel Command units to the Whiteman community with a ceremony Oct. 25 at Whiteman AFB, Mo.

The 498th Munitions Maintenance Group relocates from Kirtland AFB to Whiteman AFB, along with its new subordinate unit, the 19th Munitions Squadron. In addition to the move, the 498th MUMG retains command of the 898th Munitions Squadron and 708th Nuclear Sustainment Squadron at Kirtland AFB. 

The 498th MUMG is subordinate to the 498th Nuclear Systems Wing, which reports directly to the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, also at Kirtland.
Gen. William M. Fraser III, commander of Air Combat Command at Langley AFB, Va., addressed the rationale behind the unit actions.

"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. 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."

Gen. Donald J. Hoffman, commander of AFMC at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, spoke of the mutual dependence among the AFMC units that sustain and maintain the weapons and the ACC units that would employ the weapons.

"AFMC and ACC are critical partners in providing our nation's leaders with the ultimate strategic deterrent. That's why this mission is so important, and why perfection is the only acceptable standard. Everyone in these organizations has a personal and professional stake in making sure the work is done right the first time, every time. Working together, we make it happen."

Brig. Gen. Everett H. Thomas, AFNWC commander, is responsible for the entire scope of sustainment of Air Force nuclear weapons and support equipment in the continental United States, ensuring safe, secure and reliable nuclear weapon systems to support nuclear-capable combatant commands and the Air Force warfighter.

He echoed General Hoffman's comments and added a further point.

"The nuclear enterprise is a challenging and demanding mission. Fielding a force that's safe, secure and reliable requires the best of everyone involved, all the time. It's a testament to the warrior spirit, tireless work ethic and innate professionalism of the Airmen who carry out the mission that the most powerful arsenal in the world is ready if and when called upon."

These unit actions are significant milestones that continue progress based on direction from the Secretary of Defense, and further implement the vision of the Air Force Secretary and chief of staff to reinvigorate the Air Force's nuclear enterprise.