20th AF/CC's first orientation visit to Minot

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jesse Lopez
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The new commander of 20th Air Force visited Minot Air Force Base to meet with Airmen and share his mission vision for the future during his first orientation visit here 15 to 17 July.

Maj. Gen. Michael J. Carey, 20th AF/CC, spent time visiting various areas around the installation before conducting an all-call prior to his departure.

In describing why he was making this visit, the general said he wanted to see first-hand the professionals of the 20th Air Force who provide nuclear deterrence every day and their successful partnership with the 5th Bomb Wing.

"Spending time and witnessing your work first hand will produce a better connection," said Carey. "It also allows one to get a feel for how things are going."

Carey met the tactical response force team, observed training demonstrations, and met with the Airmen of the convoy response force. He also spent time with maintenance personnel, before attending mission briefings with wing leadership.

He flew with a 54th Helicopter Squadron crew to visit a missile launch facility and speak with Airmen in the field before conducting his all-call at the base theater, culminating the first day of his tour.

During his short visit, he was able to cover a lot of territory and meet a number of people in varied career fields who make up Team Minot.

"You are our deterrent value," said Carey during his all-call. "It should make you proud to know that you are part of the military's only mission directly executed by the president, and the highest levels of leadership in this country are thinking about you every day."

He also stated in his dual role as the commander, 20th Air Force, Air Force Global Strike Command, and Commander Task Force 214, U.S. Strategic Command, he is responsible for one of the Air Force's top priorities - the nation's intercontinental ballistic missile force, an always-ready nuclear deterrent and, should it become necessary, the nuclear strike mission. He expressed his urge to instill that sense of importance to the Airmen of 20th Air Force, as well as reinforce their needs to provide optimal mission effectiveness.