STRATCOM 625th Operations Squadron Changes Command

Air Force Lt. Col. Deane Konowicz assumed command of U.S. Strategic Command’s 625th Operations Squadron from Air Force Lt. Col. J. Grayson Higby at Offutt AFB on June 26, according to a June 30 STRATCOM press release. “The mission set of the 625th Strategic Operations Squadron includes some of the most critical activities related to our ICBM (intercontinental ballistic missile) combat capability,” said 20th Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Jack Weinstein, who presided over the ceremony. “The airmen of the 625th STOS have performed exceptionally well under the leadership and advocacy of Lt. Col. Higby.” Weinstein appointed Konowicz to the position, and the new 625th commander thanked him for demonstrating his confidence through the action. “I understand command is both a privilege and challenge,” Konowicz said. “I am very grateful for the opportunity to lead in your ICBM force.” The mission of the 625th Operations Squadron is to find, analyze and evaluate strategic nuclear targets in the official U.S. nuclear war plan, OPLAN 8010.