The head of Air Force Global Strike Command, General Thomas Bussiere, has announced his upcoming retirement. He made this announcement via a social media post on Facebook, citing personal and family reasons for his decision.
Retirement Announcement
General Bussiere’s retirement request is set to take effect following a change of command ceremony scheduled for October 17. He expressed pride in his tenure, remarking on the privilege of serving with the dedicated members of the Air Force and highlighting the accomplishments of the Warrior Airmen under his leadership.
Career Overview
Earlier this year, Bussiere was positioned for a significant role in the Air Force after being selected to become its No. 2 officer. However, his nomination was later withdrawn, preventing his advancement. This decision came after the departure of former Air Force Vice Chief of Staff General James Slife, leaving Bussiere as a potential candidate for higher leadership roles.
Previous Positions and Achievements
Bussiere has a distinguished career, having joined the Air Force in 1985 through the ROTC program at Norwich University. He became a command pilot, logging thousands of flight hours on various aircraft, including:
- F-15 Eagle
- B-2 Spirit
- F-22 Raptor
He also served as commander of the Eighth Air Force and assumed his current role in December 2022. In this position, he managed the Air Force’s nuclear deterrent capabilities and strategic assets.
Focus on Modernization
General Bussiere has been a strong advocate for modernization initiatives within the Air Force, particularly concerning the aging bomber fleet. He oversaw several programs, including the B-21 Raider, aiming to enhance the United States’ strategic capabilities. However, some initiatives, such as the LGM-35A Sentinel, faced challenges, including the need for new missile silos.
Looking Forward
As he prepares to depart from active duty, Bussiere remains committed to supporting the Air Force and national defense. In his statement, he expressed gratitude to those who supported him throughout his journey.
