SpOC commander, CMSSF visit Space Delta 4

Published July 5, 2024
By Airman 1st Class Joshua Hollis
Space Base Delta 2 Public Affairs

BUCKLEY SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFNS) -- Lt. Gen. David N. Miller, Jr., commander of Space Operations Command, Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna and Chief Master Sgt. Caleb Lloyd, SpOC senior enlisted leader, visited Buckley Space Force Base July 3, to engage with Space Delta 4 personnel and gain a comprehensive understanding of their mission operations.

man speaks to crowd — Lt. Gen. David N. Miller, Jr., commander of Space Operations Command, delivers a speech during a town hall with Guardians at Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., July 3, 2024. While the Space Force continues developing as the Department of Defense’s newest branch, leaders like Miller aim to ensure Guardians and Airmen alike are equipped with the resources they need for the U.S. Space Force to remain a ready and capable force. (U.S. Space Force photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hollis)

The visit began with an office call at DEL 4 headquarters, where Miller received an overview of DEL 4’s operational landscape. He also toured the 3rd Satellite Communications Squadron antenna site, learning about their crucial role in space communications.

“I am very proud of the work Delta 4 Guardians have done to equip and train the force in preparation for the Space Force Generation display of forces execution this October,” Miller said. “How can we operate together in war, if we never plan, and operate together before the first generation?”

Miller’s visit continued with a briefing at the 71st Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Squadron, which emphasized their contributions to space-based situational awareness.

group of military members — Lt. Gen. David N. Miller, Jr., commander of Space Operations Command, center, and Space Delta 4 members, pose for a group photo at Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., July 3, 2024. During Miller's visit, he met with leadership and received briefings on the Space Delta 4 abilities to effectively generate and field combat ready forces. (U.S. Space Force photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hollis)

The leadership team also visited the Overhead Persistent Infrared Battlespace Awareness Center, where they observed how data from space-based sensors is processed and utilized to enhance operational readiness within the non-commissioned officer corps.

“We need to be pushing to ensure that we take a deliberate discipline initiative, and the NCO feels empowered from command leadership teams to move out on objectives,” Lloyd said. “The NCOs know the mission best. I saw that in full force today here at Buckley.”

A leadership lunch provided an opportunity for Miller to discuss his strategic vision with DEL 4’s senior leaders and gather feedback. The day concluded with a town hall, where he addressed personnel and answered questions about space operations and strategy.

man shakes womans hand — Lt. Gen. David N. Miller, Jr., commander of Space Operations Command, recognizes Space Delta 4 members at Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., July 3, 2024. During his visit, Miller recognized many Guardians for their hard work and dedication to the Space Force mission. (U.S. Space Force photo by Airman 1st Class Joshua Hollis)

“We are going to succeed because Delta 4 Guardians are awesome.” Miller said, “There is only one squadron that does strategic missile warning for the Department of Defense, that is Delta 4. There is no one else, and you got this.”

The visit underscored the integral role of Buckley SFB in the broader Space Force mission, reaffirming his commitment to enhancing the capabilities and well-being of DEL 4’s personnel.

Miller ended the visit reminding Guardians to take care of themselves, each other and to stay ready.