7th OSS crowned best bomb squadron in Global Strike Challenge

by Airman 1st Class Charles V. Rivezzo
7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

11/14/2012 - DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Once again, the 7th Operations Support Squadron is atop the bomber community as they walked away from the 3rd annual Global Strike Challenge with two of the competitions most coveted trophies.

During the GSC symposium Nov. 7 at Barksdale Air Force Base, La., the 7th OSS was awarded the LeMay Trophy for Best Bomb Squadron and the Eaker Trophy for Best B-1B Squadron.

Additionally, the 7th Bomb Wing was recognized as the runner-up for the Fairchild Trophy, which is given to the overall best bomb wing.

Throughout the past three years, the 7th OSS has proved to be Dyess' most decorated squadron when it comes to the GSC, winning the LeMay Trophy twice and holding onto the Eaker Trophy for a third time.

The bomber operations portion of the GSC had three main components for aircrews to earn points. The first component was the bomb score where aircrews were judged on how close their bombs were dropped to targets. The second component was timing control, where aircrews were penalized for every second, early or late, the bomb hit the target. The third component judged was a real-world combat bombing scenario.

"Our crew was filled with veteran operators who have years of B-1 experience," said Maj. Kyle Schlewinsky. "Having the abilities and experience that we have gave us a huge advantage during global strike due to the competition's rapidly changing scenarios."

The Global Strike Challenge is the world's premier bomber, intercontinental ballistic missile and security forces competition with units participating from Air Combat Command, Air Force Global Strike Command, Air Force Materiel Command, Air Force Reserve Command and the Air National Guard. Approximately 400 competitors from 16 different wings and nearly 50 squadrons participated in GSC events this year at various locations around the United States.

"Every Airman on this installation played a role in making these awards a reality, and both Colonel VanHerck and I thank you," said Col. Vincent Lostetter, 7th Bomb Wing vice commander. "Additionally, we extend a special job well done to the outstanding Airmen of the Operations Group, Maintenance Group and Mission Support Group, who performed as we knew they would, all while representing themselves and Dyess Air Force Base in the finest of fashion."