MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- The 40th Helicopter Squadron flew to the top this year as the best intercontinental ballistic missile squadron for which they were awarded the 2022 Omaha Trophy on June 28, 2023 at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont.
The Omaha Trophy is the highest honor bestowed upon a nuclear enterprise by a civilian organization, awarded each year to units across the U.S. Strategic Command in four official categories: strategic bombers, intercontinental ballistic missiles, ballistic missile submarines, strategic bombers and strategic space and information operations.
Beginning in 1970, the Strategic Command Consultation Committee (SCC) created the Omaha Trophy to be presented to the best Strategic Bombardment Wing in all of Strategic Air Command. As the missions and platforms grew and SAC became USSTRATCOM, that tradition has continued every year since and has expanded to acknowledge the best units of every USSTRATCOM mission set.
“On behalf of the men and women at the Strategic Command, I want to say congratulations and well-deserved,” said Gen. Anthony Cotton, USSTRATCOM commander. “You are fundamental to where we are in the protection of our nation and allies.”
The 40th HS distinguished themselves this year by enabling eight aircraft to fly 4,060 hours and safeguarding 84 nuclear weapons movements, establishing a safe zone for a damaged payload transporter and rescuing an emergency patient.
“To the ladies and gentlemen of the 40th Helicopter Squadron, this honor is yours,” said Lt. Col. Kenneth Green, 40th HS commander. “Your dedication, hard work and teamwork is what deters aggression, detects opposition and defends our nation’s nuclear capability.”
The squadron validated their core mission competencies during their Mission Readiness Inspection while concurrently supporting the 341st Missile Wing’s Nuclear Surety Inspection, enabling both to receive mission effective grades and lauds by the Deputy Inspector General.
They also led security training in the missile fields by identifying security shortfalls and developing improvements to protect the wings $2.2 billion arsenal.
“I am so proud of what each and every one of you have accomplished and can’t wait to see the amazing things you do next,” Green said to his Airmen.