Mark Alford: “I rise today with immense pride for the brave airmen of Missouri's own 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base in my…”

“I rise today with immense pride for the brave airmen of Missouri's own 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base in my district, who executed decisive, strategic strikes against the Iranian regime under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump. I also will take a moment to honor the other heroes who are part of this historic operation. Pilots from the Air National Guard's 131st Bomb Wing, also at Whiteman, made up 50 percent of the flyers alongside the 509. The operation, maintenance, and the support personnel also contributed significantly to the experience in planning, preparation, and execution. Just this past weekend, the world saw, once again, what American resolve looks like when we are paired with unmatched precision and capability. B-2s launched from Whiteman and executed a long-range strike against Iran in Operation Midnight Hammer. This is one of the best examples of integration of total force that has come from Whiteman Air Force Base in recent times. Operation Midnight Hammer is a vivid example of what our long-range strike capabilities are all about: strategic reach, rapid response, and incredible deterrence. Let me be clear, Mr. Speaker, these were not just strikes, they were a message to the world. It is a message to every rogue regime that threatens American lives and our global stability that when President Trump draws a red line, he means it. This is what peace through strength looks like.”