Commander's Corner

  • Published
  • By Col. Anthony Cotton
  • 341 Missile Wing commander
Thanksgiving has come and gone, and although many had the opportunity to spend quality time with their family and friends, multiple members of Wing One spent the days leading up to, during and directly following the holiday supporting our demanding mission. The past couple of weeks has been hectic and has required an increased level of diligence and dedication. Despite the arctic temperatures, heavy snowfall and visits from some very prominent leaders, Team Malmstrom continued to apply the exacting focus, attention to detail and adherence to the highest standards that resulted in the flawless execution of all events and missions.

In just seven days, Wing One successfully displayed its mission to eight distinguished visitors to include four general officers, and one state senator.

On Thanksgiving, Lt. Gen. Frank Klotz, Air Force Global Strike Command commander and Chief Master Sgt. Jack Johnson, AFGSC command chief, joined me and other Malmstrom commanders to serve a Thanksgiving feast to you, our deserving Airmen. This meal was served by the leadership as a thank you for all the hard work you do, pride you show and commitment you have made to provide safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrence forces to protect our nation.

General Klotz returned just days later with Gen. Kevin Chilton, U.S. Strategic Command commander, to express to you the importance of Wing One's mission. The weapon system we operate, maintain, secure and support here at Malmstrom is vitally important to our operational commander, General Chilton. You hard work every day, ensures USSTRATCOM has the capability to execute its combat mission. The assets provided by Wing One and AFGSC are key to USSTRATCOM's mission to deter attacks on U.S. vital interests, to ensure U.S. freedom of action in space and cyberspace, to deliver integrated kinetic and non-kinetic effects to include nuclear and information operations in support of U.S. Joint Force Commander operations.

General Chilton's visit reinforced the need for every Airman on this base to continue to perform the mission to perfection. As you and your family enjoy the beauty, activities and festivities of the winter season, keep safety in mind. Plan accordingly for all trips, ensure your car is equipped with a survival kit, drive slowly, and use sound judgment. I need every Airman to be cognizant of the hazards associated with this season. Stay alert and look out for your wingman because you are our most valuable resource! Most importantly, enjoy your family and friends and keep doing what you're doing. Good work Wing One, let's continue to lean forward.


Colonel Cotton