Space Force’s top enlisted leader visits Kirtland AFB

Published Sept. 9, 2025
By Britianie Teston and Staff Sgt. Jennifer Knope

KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (AFNS) -- Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna visited Kirtland Air Force Base Sept. 3 to meet with Guardians, gain a deeper understanding of local space operations, and underscore the installation’s growing role in advancing national defense through innovation and enlisted force development.

During his visit, Bentivegna received mission overviews from Space Systems Command and the Air Force Research Laboratory, toured key facilities, and hosted a town hall with Guardians. The trip emphasized Kirtland AFB’s strategic importance as home to approximately 1,200 Guardians supporting diverse missions that safeguard the nation’s access to and freedom of action in space.

military member speaks to a person — Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna speaks with Guardians and civilians during a visit to Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., Sept. 4, 2025. The visit included a briefing, an awards presentation, and a Q&A session highlighting the contributions of Kirtland AFB personnel to the U.S. Space Force mission. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jennifer Knope)

group poses for a photo — Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John F. Bentivegna poses with Airmen and Guardians for a photo at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., Sep. 3, 2025. Bentivegna hosted a lunch where he got the chance to speak directly to Airmen and Guardians and recognize their contributions to the U.S. Space Force mission. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Alenne Mojica)

military members having lunch — Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John F. Bentivegna speaks with Airmen and Guardians during a visit to Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., Sep. 3, 2025. Bentivegna hosted a lunch where he got the chance to speak directly to Airmen and Guardians and recognize their contributions to the U.S. Space Force mission. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Alenne Mojica)

“Visiting bases like Kirtland allows me to witness firsthand the incredible work our Guardians are doing,” Bentivegna said. “These visits serve as a reminder of the sacrifices that our Guardians make daily, and I am beyond honored to witness it and advocate on their behalf. The work being done here, from research and development to operational support and joint integration, is vital to our success in the space domain and our ability to protect the nation.”

Bentivegna’s discussions with Guardians centered on enlisted development, professional growth opportunities, and the importance of maintaining a strong culture of resilience and readiness. He highlighted the critical role of enlisted leaders in shaping the future of the Space Force, noting that their expertise and innovation are vital to driving mission success, and his pride to witness their impact firsthand as their advocate.

two military members shaking hands — Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna shakes hands with U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Davidson Baker before presenting him with a coin at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., Sept. 3, 2025. Bentivegna met with Guardians and civilians to highlight professional achievements and reinforce the importance of their mission contributions. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jennifer Knope)

The visit also reinforced the importance of collaboration between SSC, AFRL, and partner organizations at Kirtland AFB, which are leading research, development, and operational efforts to maintain U.S. space superiority. From advancing satellite technology to pioneering new space systems, these missions directly contribute to national security and the joint fight.

“What truly stands out about Kirtland is its holistic approach to space dominance - innovation to warfighting,” Bentivegna said. “Seeing the cutting-edge research at AFRL and the operational focus of SSC, I understand how we are advancing directed energy, prototype satellite operations, and Space Development Agency. These are foundational in our ability to deter threats and maintain the peaceful use of space, which underpins everything we do as a Space Force. Kirtland is at the forefront of creating our competitive advantage in space.”

Kirtland Air Force Base continues to stand at the forefront of space innovation, advancing critical missions while shaping the next generation of enlisted leaders in the United States Space Force.