MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. —
U.S. Air Force Col. John Burrell assumed command of the 5th Operations Group from U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher Cain during a change of command ceremony at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, June 21.

Prior to assuming command of the 5th OG, Burrell was the Nuclear Operations Division Chief, Joint Staff, the Pentagon, responsible for standardizing Nuclear Command and Control operations, policy, and Nuclear Surety across the National Military Command System. Those in attendance at the ceremony included families of both commanders in addition to members of the 23rd Bomb Squadron, 69th Bomb Squadron and the 5th Operations Support Squadron.

“It has been an honor to lead the 5th OG,” said Cain. “The dedication and professionalism of this team have been unparalleled. I am confident that Col. Burrell will continue to drive excellence in all our missions.”

U.S. Air Force Col. Daniel Hoadley, 5th Bomb Wing commander, commended the work accomplished by the 5th OG under Cain’s leadership.

“The men and women of the 5th OG have shown exceptional commitment and skill in their mission,” said Hoadley. “They have ensured the readiness and operational success of our B-52H Stratofortress fleet, and I am confident that Burrell will continue this legacy of excellence.”

The 5th OG plays a crucial role in the mission of the 5th Bomb Wing, overseeing the operations of its B-52H Stratofortress fleet. The Group’s mission includes providing global strike and combat support capabilities to achieve national security objectives.

“The dedication and commitment of the 5th OG team are truly remarkable,” said Burrell. “I am honored to lead such a distinguished group and look forward to continuing our mission of maintaining the highest standards of readiness and reliability.”