Air Force Global Strike Command’s annual Global Strike Challenge culminated in the crowning of the service’s top bombardment and ICBM wings during a ceremony last week at Barksdale AFB, La. The 509th Bomb Wing from Whiteman AFB, Mo., took the Fairchild Trophy for best bomb wing, while the 91st Missile Wing from Minot AFB, N.D., claimed the Blanchard Trophy for best ICBM wing, announced command officials on Nov. 7. This year is the second time the 509th BW has won top honors, while the 91st MW captured the ICBM title for the first time, according to the officials. Among the other winners, Whiteman received the Ellis Giant Sword for best bomber maintenance group, Minot’s 91st Security Forces Group won the Charlie Fire Trophy for best security forces group, and Minot’s 54th Helicopter Squadron repeated as the winner of the Bourland Trophy for best helicopter squadron. Airmen from across the command, along with members of Air Combat Command’s B-1 units, competed in the challenge. (Barksdale release with list of winners)
US Space Command Should Always Be Led by a Guardian
Sept. 12, 2026
General Stephen Whiting took command of U.S. Space Command in January 2024, and if customary three-year tenures hold, his tour would end in January 2027. The question now before the President and Senate is who should follow him? Whoever they choose, it has to be a Guardian—and so should every successor…
