5th BW successfully completes re-inspection Published Aug. 18, 2008 Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Air Combat Command officials announced here today the successful re-inspection of the 5th Bomb Wing's nuclear surety. "I am incredibly proud of all the Airmen in the 5th Bomb Wing who have persevered through tough times over the past year, and can attest that we are better for it," said Col. Joel Westa, 5th BW commander. "I can promise America that the Warbirds of the 5th Bomb Wing are ready for any task, and will continue to strive for excellence daily." Approximately 35 inspectors from the ACC Inspector General team and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency supported by observers from U.S. Strategic Command and the Air Force Inspection Agency assessed the wing's nuclear surety from Aug. 10 to 15. The inspection teams determined the 5th BW can execute its strategic mission in a safe, secure and reliable manner. "Minot went through a very tough re-inspection over the past few days," said ACC Inspector General Brig. Gen. Joseph Reynes Jr. "I can tell you the 5th Bomb Wing performed in an exceptional manner during this re-inspection - every Airman met the demanding standards required by our Air Force and Air Combat Command." Nuclear surety inspections are extremely detailed and demand the highest standards of compliance and accountability. The re-inspection here was prompted by a May 2008 Defense Nuclear Surety Inspection that observed deficiencies in security and logistics movement. According to the ACC IG team, the 5th BW prepared for this re-inspection by addressing findings from the previous inspection and taking necessary corrective actions. In addition, the wing reinforced the corrective actions with a robust series of wing exercises focusing on security procedures. "We've made great strides," Colonel Westa said, "and will continue to with renewed focus."