509th BW validated by record-breaking NSI

509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

The men and women of the 509th Bomb Wing continue to set the bar high when it comes to the Air Force Chief of Staff’s highest priority—continuing to strengthen the nuclear enterprise.

The 509th BW successfully completed a nine-day Nuclear Surety Inspection, a detailed assessment designed to evaluate the unit’s ability to carry out its nuclear mission, Jan. 27.

"Nuclear Surety Inspections (NSI) are the most important and demanding inspections we conduct," said Col. Thomas Bussiere, Air Force Global Strike Command Inspector General. "They require absolute adherence to the highest standards of compliance, accountability and performance. Failing is not an option."

The wing was assessed in 14 key areas, grading the wing’s ability to be caretakers of an unrivaled combat power.

"The outcome of this inspection validates the 509th Bomb Wing’s ability to carry out our nuclear mission," said Brig. Gen. Scott Vander Hamm, 509th BW commander. "Results like this stem from Airmen who understand the importance of what we do here every day, not just during an inspection."

This was reflected by the 143 Airmen who were recognized by the Global Strike Command IG Team chief as either superior performers or members on superior teams during the NSI. The total number is the most recognized to-date by the command’s IG team.

"We passed this inspection due to the quality and dedication of our Airmen," Vander Hamm said. "I couldn’t be more proud."

Areas evaluated during the NSI encompassed technical operations, management and administration, security, logistics movement, safety, maintenance facilities and supply support.

"The nuclear surety and security standards by which we evaluate are strict," Bussiere said. "As we inspect AFGSC units during NSIs, we remember the special trust our nation has in our wings as stewards of the United States Air Force nuclear enterprise."

"It is our job to be ready at a moment’s notice," Vander Hamm said. "We’ve proven again that we are ready. Let this be an assurance to our allies and a deterrent to our enemies."