ND North News

General Kenneth Wilsbach has been nominated to become the next Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force, according to an announcement from the Air Force. Wilsbach previously led Air Combat Command and has a background as a fighter pilot.

Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), who chairs the Senate Armed Services Airland Subcommittee, released a statement supporting the nomination: “I know Ken Wilsbach pretty well, and I can’t think of a more competent, better prepared, and experienced General to lead the Air Force as its Chief of Staff than General Wilsbach. His experience as a fighter pilot and his background in leadership of the Air Force and the Pacific uniquely qualifies him for the current geopolitical fight we’re in. Certainly, his command of Air Combat Command makes him well aware of North Dakota’s assets and committed to North Dakota’s assets. He is the right man at the right time for the job, and I’m grateful to the President for choosing him. I could not be more pleased with an announcement than I am with this announcement. I look forward to doing everything I can on the Armed Services Committee and on the Airland Subcommittee as its leader to get him confirmed as quickly as possible.”

General Wilsbach recently joined Senator Cramer in visiting Grand Forks Air Force Base, where they discussed issues such as base quality of life, intelligence and surveillance capabilities, expansion plans for the Space Development Agency, and future missions. The visit also included a stop at the North Dakota Air National Guard in Fargo.

If confirmed by the Senate, General Wilsbach will serve as the 24th Chief of Staff of the Air Force. In this role, he will oversee organization, training, and equipping responsibilities for approximately 689,000 active-duty members, Guard personnel, Reserve forces, and civilian employees serving domestically and overseas. The position also includes serving on the Joint Chiefs of Staff and advising senior government officials including the Secretary of War, National Security Council, and President.

General Wilsbach’s nomination now moves to consideration by the U.S. Senate. He would succeed General David Allvin upon confirmation.