Minot B-52s go to Paris Published April 21, 2016 By Airman 1st Class Christian Sullivan Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota flexed its bomber muscles April 20, 2016, as they sent one of their B-52H Stratofortresses to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility for a mission. The deterrence and assurance mission consisted of interoperability training and flight intercepts with the French air force as well as performed a flyover of the Lafayette Escadrille Memorial during the 100th Anniversary of the formation of the Escadrille ceremony. Minot's B-52s were not alone in this mission as they were accompanied by U.S. Air Force F-22s, a French Mirage 2000N and French Rafales. U.S. Strategic Command units regularly conduct training with and in support of the Geographic Combatant Commands. USSTRATCOM, through its global strike assets, helps maintain global stability and security while enabling units to become familiar with operating in different regions. USSTRATCOM bomber missions provide valuable opportunities for bomber crews to integrate and train with allies and partners in a variety of missions. These bomber missions strengthen capabilities by familiarizing aircrew with airbases and operations across the globe. "The Warbirds of the 5th Bomb Wing were proud to participate in the ceremony commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Lafayette Escadrille," said Col. David Ballew, 5th Bomb Wing vice commander. "The history of cooperation between our two Air Forces dating back to World War One has continued non-stop through present day operations. Being able to send a B-52 to honor the fallen airmen from both countries is a proud moment for each and every member of the 5th Bomb Wing."