PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. –
U.S. Space Command senior leaders hosted Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Troy Black, on his first visit as the new SEAC to Peterson and Schriever Space Force bases Dec. 19, 2023.
The visit highlighted the integral work done by joint service members, Guardians, civilians and contractors at the Nation’s newest combatant command and associated units in the surrounding area, enabling Black to see and hear about the mission, the people and the community.
During the visit, he met with senior leaders, including the Commander of USSPACECOM, Army Gen. James Dickinson; senior enlisted leaders; recent graduates of the GATEWAY Joint Enlisted Professional Military Education Course; local community leaders; and enlisted members across the Colorado Springs Front Range.
“The global nature of U.S. Space Command’s mission cannot be neglected. This is the linchpin of all-domain operations needed for the future fight,” Black said. “This command is leading the charge to accelerate change in a competitive, congested and contested space environment.”
Black was quick to emphasize the competitive edge is really about the quality of the force. He dedicated time to addressing the professional development of the enlisted joint force and how combatant commands might arm more participants through the curriculum. He went on to underscore the criticality of development as it relates to joint operations and mission command, especially as the Department of Defense postures for adversaries with different capabilities, strengths.
“Each senior enlisted leader has a responsibility to focus on what they can do to win the nation’s battles,” Black said. “Modernizing equipment is one thing, but studying strategy, doctrine and training are essential to war-winning.”
After speaking with service members, Black met with families, local community members and civic leaders to understand issues impacting military families, which can affect the readiness of the force.
“The SEAC left knowing the command is ready with globally-focused space warfighters,” said Space Force Chief Master Sgt. Jacob Simmons, USSPACECOM Command Senior Enlisted Leader. “We are not waiting for conflict to surge competitiveness.”
The responsibilities of the SEAC include advising the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on matters involving joint and combined total force integration, utilization, health of the force and joint development for enlisted personnel.