In a follow-up to my previous post about the new Global Strike Command (January 24, 2009) Barksdale AFB in Louisiana was selected to get the new mission. The news was released Thursday.

I had the opportunity to spend about 6 weeks at Barksdale AFB during my time in the Force. It is a nice spacious base with lots to do in the surrounding area – a pretty nice place to spend a tour.

I was surprised by the pick, as I thought that Minot would get the nod. But, thinking back of my time in the military, I remember those General officers liking the warmer weather (golf), so I can see the selection of Barksdale over Minot, Malmstrom and F.E. Warren. The Global Strike Command will have several General officers.

Of course, Montana’s Congressional delegation was disappointed with the non-selection of Malmstrom and they vow to work to obtain other missions for the base. Time may be running out. The Obama Administration is negotiating with Russia to cut nuclear weapons by another 30%, according to this story. Montana (Malmstrom) recently lost 25% of their missile mission and now they are at the same level as Minot and F.E. Warren. Without a member of the Montana delegation on a defense or military committee, it may be hard to obtain a new mission for Malmstrom (you’ve heard that from me several times) and keep the base open. Nonetheless, I wish them luck.

Plus, there seems to be some disagreement in the community about who the spokesperson is for the community in regards to Malmstrom issues. There may be too many “generals” and not enough “airmen” in the mix. There does not seem to be a united voice, although everyone involved wants what is best for the community and the base. In my opinion there should be one united voice – settle the differences in private and come forward with one voice (and preferably by someone who understands the Air Force).

Since that squabble made it into the public, I believe it has probably harmed the way the community is perceived by those in the Air Force and the Department of Defense who can make the ultimate decision about new missions.

We’ll see what happens down the road, but for now Barksdale AFB is the soon-to-be new home of Global Strike Command.