Carter stresses importance of U.S. Strategic Command at change-of-command ceremony in Nebraska

U.S. Secretary of Defense Ash Carter recently officiated the change-of-command ceremony for U.S. Strategic Command (Stratcom) at Offuttt Air Force Base in Nebraska, during which he highlighted the importance of the command and praised those serving within it.

“America’s nuclear deterrence remains the bedrock of our security, which all of you ensure here at Stratcom,” Carter said. “As you do so, you manage uncertainty, prepare for change and perform your duties with the unparalleled excellence we expect of you. I couldn’t be prouder of what you’ve accomplished. And you’ve done all this thanks to the wisdom and leadership of Admiral (Cecil) Haney.”

Navy Adm. Cecil Haney handed over command of the Stratcom to Air Force Gen. John Hyten. In his remarks, Carter praised Haney for his outreach efforts with allies, academia and industry.

Carter highlighted the need for and beginning of renewed investment in the country’s nuclear program, as well as the recapitalization of deterrence in the modern world. He also highlighted Stratcom’s importance in maintaining the country’s capabilities in space.

“You underpin our nuclear deterrence, enable precision-guided munitions and navigation with space capabilities, and experiment with new warfighting strategies in emerging domains to prepare us for whatever the future might bring,” Carter said.