Eighth Air Force Commander Visits MAFB Published March 5, 2014 By Senior Airman Andrew Crawford Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Following one of the most important inspections of the year, Maj Gen Scott Vander Hamm, Eighth Air Force commander, made his first visit to Minot Air Force Base for a tour and to meet the Airmen of the 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Missile Wing. Additionally, Vander Hamm graced the 5th Bomb Wing Annual Awards ceremony as the guest speaker. During his visit here, Vander Hamm engaged with base leadership to share his vision for the future of Eighth Air Force regarding nuclear deterrence, our preparedness, integrating our mission with our partners and USSTRATCOM, and execution of our mission if necessary. "It's like reaching back for a baton in a foot race--you just have to keep the pace up," said Vander Hamm. "My vision is to continue the work started under Lt. Gen. Stephen Wilson's tenure as we move forward." Vander Hamm went on to explain his pride and sense of accomplishment being part of the "Mighty Eighth" and Minot Air Force Base. "You guys continue to impress Lt Gen Wilson and me with your constant professionalism during all of the inspections for the past year," said Vander Hamm. "We are very proud of you all for the job that you do in some of the toughest conditions." Vander Hamm's visit served as an opportunity to speak to the Airmen and leadership about Force Shaping Programs and the effects on Minot Air Force Base's mission. Each year, MAFB sends B-52H Stratofortresses to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, aiding in the continuous bomber presence in the Pacific. Members from the entire wing, maintainers, support and other jobs here, deploy to execute the mission. "As we continue into 2014, our commitment to the continuous bomber presence in the Pacific is not going to get any less busy," said Vander Hamm. "You guys are a key lynch pin in the overall mission." Vander Hamm's vision is a highly effective, professional force ready at all times. Strategic nuclear deterrence will remain in the forefront with two legs of the nuclear triad located here. Minot is the only B-52 base that keeps special weapons and is of the upmost importance to USSTRATCOM. Vander Hamm said, "The fact that we can fly out of a central location and complete the mission is very important." Vander Hamm went on to speak about policies regarding force shaping and the associated programs. He reassured Airmen that Eighth Air Force will continue to pass information in a timely manner. Vander Hamm's confidence in MAFB and the overall mission was apparent throughout his visit. "The Airmen have shown me how good of a job they do and I'm very impressed," said Vander Hamm.