Security Forces airmen stormed the flight line at Barksdale AFB, La., recapturing a nuclear-loaded B-52H bomber from a simulated terrorist infiltrator during a nuclear surety exercise on base last week. “Our scale is a ‘go’ or ‘no-go.’ There are no other levels,” explained Kenneth Webb, 2nd Security Forces Squadron exercise evaluator, in Barksdale’s June 26 release. “The requirements are greatly enhanced” for security forces at Air Force Global Strike Command bases, and the 2nd SFS rigorously trains for nuclear weapons security on a quarterly basis, said Webb. As part of the 2nd Bomb Wing’s overall nuclear security grade, evaluators checked that the security forces airmen displayed proper tactics, cover and concealment techniques, and fire control to make sure they could properly engage any adversary, added Webb. “It’s important to practice the wartime mission, to establish that muscle memory,” said TSgt. Willie Johnson of the 2nd SFS. (Barksdale report by SSgt. Chad Warren)
The Air Force is requesting about $141 million for initial enlistment bonuses in its fiscal 2026 budget, while Space Force wants $13 million.
