The Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) hosted the 13th Annual Task Force 21 Nuclear Triad Symposium on September 20 at the Capitol Hill Club in Washington, D.C., drawing nearly 200 attendees, including military officers, defense experts, department of defense contractors, ambassadors, and government officials. The event centered on the importance of nuclear modernization and deterrence in safeguarding U.S. national security. 

“When you hear from top experts on the state of our national defense, it’s eye-opening,” said MACEDC President & CEO Brekka Kramer. “Minot Air Force Base’s role in global security cannot be overstated and it’s important we host events like this symposium to ensure we are doing everything we can to educate and advocate for the nuclear triad” 

Retired Admiral Charles Richard, former U.S. Strategic Command Commander, provided insights into the current state of the nation’s nuclear infrastructure and the critical role of strategic deterrence. North Dakota’s legislative leaders, including U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer, John Hoeven, and U.S. Representative Kelly Armstrong, spoke about the importance of supporting nuclear deterrence efforts. 

Author and expert Gordon G. Chang addressed U.S.-China relations, while James R. Howe, President of Strategic Concepts and Analysis, discussed the future of space warfare and its national security implications. Military leaders, including Lt. Gen. Andrew J. Gebara, Maj. Gen. Jason R. Armagost, Maj. Gen. Stacy Jo Huser, Maj. Gen. Colin J. Connor, Brig. Gen. Christopher E. Menuey, and Capt. Mark C. Parrella, also highlighted the importance of ongoing nuclear deterrence initiatives. The Honorable Madelyn Creedon and Dr. Matthew Kroenig shared insights on America’s Strategic Posture and spotlighted the work of the Congressional Commision. 

Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere, Commander of Air Force Global Strike Command, delivered the afternoon keynote, emphasizing Minot’s pivotal role in U.S. nuclear deterrence. “Minot is the most important base in the Department of Defense,” Gen. Bussiere remarked, “where Minot goes, the Air Force goes, where Minot goes, the department goes.”   

Task Force 21 Chair Mark Jantzer closed the event, stressing the urgency of continued advocacy. “The word ‘urgency’ came up repeatedly today,” said Jantzer. “We need to talk to our national, state, local and public leaders and members about these important issues.” 

For more information, visit TaskForce21.com or contact the Minot Area Chamber EDC at (701) 852-6000.