herman R. Meyer

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.

The 15th Air Force was originally established in 1943 during World War II as part of the United States Army Air Forces, playing a crucial role in the strategic bombing campaign in Southern and Eastern Europe. After the war, it was reactivated and eventually became an integral component of the Strategic Air Command (SAC) during the Cold War. Under SAC, the 15th Air Force managed and coordinated numerous bomber and tanker wings, providing nuclear deterrence and global strike capabilities. Throughout its tenure with SAC, the 15th Air Force contributed significantly to U.S. strategic readiness until SAC's inactivation in 1992, when the unit was realigned under Air Mobility Command.