B-52s and Airmen return to Minot AFB

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Zachary Hada
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  For the past six months Ellsworth Airmen have grown accustomed to the sight of B-52 Stratofortress bombers flying overhead, but with the completion of a newly reconstructed runway at Minot Air Force Base, N.D., the aircraft will be returning home Oct. 1.

Approximately eight B-52s and 300 Airmen from Minot have been temporarily assigned to Ellsworth since March while their runway underwent the final phase of a reconstruction project, providing a cost effective way for the 5th Bomb Wing to ensure its mission capabilities while staying close to home.

"While at Ellsworth we were able to continue our flying operations," said 1st Lt. Lacey Richardson, 23rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit officer in charge. "Without continuing flying operations we wouldn't be able to keep our aircrews combat ready to deploy and continue our mission."

The 5th BW, the host wing at Minot, provides full-spectrum deterrence and outstanding support for the 91st Missile Wing - also located at Minot - and if deterrence fails, B-52 firepower on demand. Carrying on operations during the reconstruction project was a key element to that mission.

Additionally, during their stay at Ellsworth, Minot Airmen have been able to work alongside 28th Bomb Wing Airmen, providing teamwork, communication and integrated training opportunities for both wings.

"Every base has its own way of handling the Air Force mission," Richardson said. "It's a great way to take good processes home."

Working with Ellsworth has been a great opportunity for the Airmen to learn more about each other and how each wing completes their part of that overall mission, Richardson added.

"Ellsworth has been really good to us, especially the 28th Force Support Squadron with lodging," Richardson said. "They've been really helpful with making sure we have lodging on and off base, so overall it's been a great [temporary duty] for everybody, especially the Airmen."

Richardson said visiting Rapid City and the Black Hills has been an enjoyable experience.

"We really just appreciate everything the base has done for us, especially Col. Kennedy and all base leadership," Richardson said. "Since the beginning, everybody has been very good to us and the entire 5th Bomb Wing appreciates everything the base has done during our stay."