Senior Leaders Held Accountable For Nuclear Enterprise Missteps

WASHINGTON --- Air Force leaders released details today about administrative actions being taken against 15 officers in connection with deficiencies outlined in a report reviewing elements of the service's nuclear enterprise.>> "The Air Force has no more solemn obligation than the security and reliability of the nation's nuclear arsenal," Air Force Chief of Staff General Norton A. Schwartz said. "Commanders are accountable for all aspects of their commands, as are general officers for their functional responsibilities.">> The Secretary of Defense charged Navy Adm. Kirkland H. Donald's with conducting a comprehensive review of the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) force following the mistaken shipment of four ICBM nose-cone fuse assemblies to Taiwan in August 2006.>> The Air Force, in accordance with policy and precedence for Department of Defense-level inquiries, decided to release the names of the six general officers held responsible in the outcome of the investigation. They are:>> - Lt. Gen. Kevin J. Sullivan> - Lt. Gen. Michael A. Hamel> - Maj. Gen. Roger W. Burg> - Maj. Gen. Kathleen D. Close> - Brig. Gen. Francis M. Bruno> - Brig. Gen. Arthur B. Cameron III>> "We recognize the years of dedicated service these officers have given, but we cannot ignore the breaches of trust that have occurred on their watch," said Acting Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley.>> The Air Force previously did not release the names of the general officers to allow each individual the opportunity to comment or provide any additional, clarifying information before the actions were finalized, and to respect the officers' privacy while matters were under review.