Gene Baker

Strategic Air Command

U.S. Air Force

The Strategic Air Command (SAC) was a major command of the United States Air Force that existed from 1946 to 1992. Its primary mission was to provide strategic nuclear deterrence and global strike capabilities during the Cold War. SAC operated a large fleet of bombers, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and reconnaissance aircraft to fulfill its mission. The command played a key role in maintaining the balance of power between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

2nd Bomb Wing

U.S. Air Force

The 2nd Bomb Wing (2 BW) was originally activated in 1947 as part of the newly independent United States Air Force, inheriting the lineage of distinguished World War II bomber units. Assigned to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, the wing has operated a succession of strategic bombers, including the B-29 Superfortress, B-47 Stratojet, and currently the B-52H Stratofortress. Throughout the Cold War, the 2nd Bomb Wing played a crucial role in nuclear deterrence and global strike capability. In the post-Cold War era, it has supported numerous operations, such as Desert Storm, Allied Force, and enduring missions in the Global War on Terrorism, maintaining its reputation as a cornerstone of America’s strategic airpower.