A team of Air Force Global Strike Command Airmen launched an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile equipped with multiple targetable reentry vehicles from aboard the Airborne Launch Control System Nov. 5, 2024 at 11:01 p.m. Pacific Time from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. Airmen from the 625th Strategic Operations Squadron out of Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, were aboard the U.S. Navy E-6B Mercury aircraft to demonstrate the reliability and effectiveness of the ALCS system. (U.S. Air Force video by Airman 1st Class Alyssa Bankston)
One year ago, Airmen across the Eighth Air Force helped execute Operation Midnight Hammer, a historic long-range strike mission that demonstrated the reach, capability and effectiveness of America's global strike force.
In recognition of the heroic actions of the Eighth Air Force during World War II, The Normandy Institute dedicated the Eighth Air Force Memorial as part of an unveiling ceremony at La Fiere Bridge in Normandy, France, June 5, 2025.
