Senator meets with military leaders, airmen, and civilian personnel to see firsthand their work to support military’s most advanced assets
Ogden, UT – U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) visited Hill Air Force Base today to meet with military leaders and discuss the base’s critical role in national defense, military readiness, and strategic deterrence. As Utah’s largest military installation and a hub for advanced aircraft engineering and logistics, Hill AFB plays a critical role in maintaining and modernizing the nation’s airpower. During his visit, Senator Curtis received briefings on the Ogden Air Logistics Complex, Minuteman III and Sentinel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile systems, 75th Air Base Wing, and 388th and 419th Fighter Wings.
“Hill Air Force Base is a cornerstone of our national defense, playing a vital role in sustaining the readiness of our Armed Forces and strengthening our strategic deterrence capabilities,” said Senator Curtis. “I was honored to meet with the Airmen and civilian personnel who make this mission possible. Their expertise in engineering and logistics management is ensuring that some of our nation’s most advanced military assets—like the F-35 Lightning II, F-16 Fighting Falcon, Minuteman III and Sentinel—remain cutting-edge, operational, and mission-ready. I’m committed to ensuring Hill has the resources it needs to maintain its role in bolstering our airpower and safeguarding our national security.”
“We appreciate Senator Curtis taking the time to gain a deeper understanding of Hill AFB’s vital role in national defense,” said Col. Dan Cornelius, 75th Air Base Wing commander. “Senator Curtis’s engagement demonstrates his genuine commitment to understanding and supporting the Airmen of Hill AFB and their critical missions.”
As part of the visit, Senator Curtis toured the F-16 and F-35 production lines, where he observed firsthand the advanced maintenance, logistics, and modernization efforts that keep these critical aircraft fleets mission-ready. Hill AFB plays a vital role in extending the operational lifespan of the F-16 Fighting Falcon and ensuring the continued technological superiority of the F-35 Lightning II.
The senior military officials Curtis met with include Maj. Gen. Kenyon K. Bell, Commander of the Ogden Air Logistics Complex; Col. Daniel L. Cornelius, 75th Air Base Wing and Installation Commander; Col. James Buessing, 388th Fighter Wing Deputy Commander; Col. Ronald Sloma, 419th Fighter Wing Commander; and Ms. Kathryn Parks, Deputy Program Executive Office for the ICBM Systems Directorate.