Strategic Command welcomes new commander in chief

Strategic Command welcomes new commander in chief

Released: Jul 1, 1998

by Navy Journalist Second Class Michael J. Meridith
United States Strategic Command Public Affairs

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. (AFNS) -- The U.S. Strategic Command welcomed a new commander-in-chief for third time since its establishment on June 1, 1992 during a formal ceremony held on the parade grounds here.

Adm. Richard W. Mies, former commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, and commander, Submarine Allied Command, Atlantic, accepted the reins of command from Air Force Gen. Eugene E. Habiger, who had served as USSTRATCOM commander in chief since Feb. 21, 1996.

As the senior official presiding over the event, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army Gen. Henry H. Shelton outlined the qualities the new CINC would need during his tenure:

"He must be a statesman and a diplomat... He must be ready to work with long-time allies and former adversaries to build lasting relationships so we can recognize common values and pursue common goals. He must have the wisdom to develop and articulate a strategic framework to provide peace and stability for a very complex future."

Other distinguished guests in attendance included Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Michael E. Ryan, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jay L. Johnson, Asst. Secretary of Defense for Department of Energy Programs Dr. Victor H. Reese, Nebraska Lt. Gov. Kim Robak, and Omaha Mayor Hal Daub.

Highlights of the ceremony included a 19-gun howitzer salute, performances by the Heartland of America marching band, a parade with more than 500 servicemembers, and a B-52 flyover in recognition of Habiger's days as an Air Force bomber pilot.

"I hope my service to our great country in the profession of arms can be measured in these ways: that I have fought for what was right and fair; that I have risked for that which mattered; that I have given inspiration to those whom I have served; and finally, that I have helped to make our nation and our national defense better for what I've done and who I've been," Habiger said.

Adm. Mies, who served USSTRATCOM previously as deputy director of plans and policy from 1992 to 1994, was quick to describe his vision for the future of the command.

"I intend to build on General Habiger's accomplishments," he said. "I have four principal goals which I think are key to the success of the command. The first is to ensure the continued strong, robust reliability of our strategic deterrent forces. Second, to ensure a safe, secure, reliable nuclear weapons stockpile. Third to continue to work for continued progress in our arms control agreements. Finally, and most importantly, taking care and keeping faith with our people in the strategic forces."

A submariner, Mies has served aboard four submarines during his 35-year career, including a tour as the commanding officer of the USS SEA DEVIL (SSN 664). In addition, he has served as both a submarine squadron and group commander prior to his most recent assignment. (Courtesy USSTRATCOM Public Affairs)

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Strategic Command welcomes new commander in chief