GSC: Then and now

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Malia Jenkins
  • Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs
MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  The first bombing competition was held in 1948 with three aircrews from 10 B-29 bomber units throughout the Strategic Air Command at Castle Air Force Base, California, said Staff Sgt. Brian Stives, 8th Air Force Public Affairs, in an article showcasing the legacy of Global Strike Challenge.

Scoring was based on accuracy in three visual and radar bomb releases from 25,000 feet.

The bomb competition was such a success in producing a competitive spirit among crews and improving bombing accuracy that the second SAC commander, Gen. Curtis E. LeMay, made the competition an annual event in 1949.

This year, Airmen from the 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Missile Wing will participate in the fourth annual GSC. Top security forces members, maintainers, helicopter crews, weapons loaders, and missile and bomber crews compete to be recognized as the "best of the best" in their fields.

Global Strike Challenge showcases the bomber and intercontinental ballistic missile force through competition and teamwork, while fostering camaraderie and esprit de corps.

Teams have been chosen to represent Minot AFB and are preparing for the competition through various training exercises and drills.

Approximately 80 competitors from more than 10 units on base will take part in events at various locations around the United States.

Over the years, the SAC Bombing and Navigation Competition evolved from a relatively simple bombing exercise to a challenging course testing all-around skills.

The 5th BW, comprised of weapons load crews, munitions maintenance crews, a security forces team and three bomber crews, will compete in the bomb competition portion of the challenge. They are tested on their ability to properly build, load and accurately drop the munitions on target.

The 91st MW, comprised of helicopter crews, security forces members, missile maintainers and missile operations crews, will compete in the missile competition portion. These teams are evaluated on their abilities to properly secure, maintain and operate the Minuteman III weapon system.

The Warbirds and Rough Riders will compete to take home the coveted Fairchild and Blanchard Team Trophies, respectively.