Louisiana Senate honors 2nd Bomb Wing

by Airman 1st Class Curt Beach
2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs

7/15/2015 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Louisiana State Senator Barrow Peacock presented Col. Kristin Goodwin, 2nd Bomb Wing commander, with a resolution congratulating the 2nd BW for earning the 2014 Brigadier General Frederick W. Castle Award here, July 13.

"The Castle Award is the culmination of Airmen, civilians, and community partners working together to achieve even greater heights," said Goodwin. "The honor of a Louisiana Senate resolution highlights the importance of this relationship. Our team extends well beyond our gates. Whether military or civilian, they all contribute to our collective success."

Peacock wrote the resolution and sent it before the Louisiana State Senate, where it passed, 24-15.

The Castle Award, founded in 2010, memorializes Brig. Gen. Frederick W. Castle, Medal of Honor recipient and namesake of a former Strategic Air Command base. Awarded annually, it recognizes Air Force Global Strike Command's best bomb wing for its accomplishments and quality initiatives and honors the heritage of courageous Airmen and their role in the nuclear deterrence mission.

Throughout 2014, the 2nd BW reformed processes which earned Air Force and Department of Defense accolades punctuated by the highest possible ratings on multiple major inspections.

This is the second time 2nd BW has earned the prestigious award, the first being in 2010. Last year's recipient was the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri; the nation's B-2 Spirit unit and one of three AFGSC active duty bomb wings.

"Whether it is their role in the Nuclear Enterprise, supporting combatant commanders or enhancing the capabilities of their base, the Airmen of Barksdale, in conjunction with community partners, are making a difference every day," the resolution reads.

It continues, "Therefore, be it resolved that the Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana does hereby commend and congratulate the Airmen of Barksdale Air Force Base and 2nd Bomb Wing commanders, Brig. Gen. Andrew Gebara and Col. Kristin Goodwin, for being awarded the 2014 Brigadier General Frederick W. Castle Award for best bomber wing in Air Force Global Strike Command and does hereby express enduring appreciation for the pride they bring to the citizens of the United States and Louisiana."