BARKSDALE AFB, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Gen. Anthony Cotton will soon be leaving for a new position at the United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), and a commander from USSTRATCOM is stepping up to replace him.
Gen. Cotton has served as the commander of the Air Force Global Strike Command since his appointment in August of 2021. But next week, US Strategic Command will hold a change of command ceremony as he moves to his new post.
He has served as an Air Force officer for 36 years and previously served as the Deputy Commander of the Global Strike Command before his promotion. Gen. Cotton entered the Air Force through the ROTC program while attending North Carolina State University. He “pinned on” the rank of General in August of 2021. During his service, Cotton has earned numerous awards and decorations, including the National Reconnaissance Office Medal of Distinguished Performance, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal with device.
During his nomination for USSTRATCOM, he told the Senate Armed Services Committee that Strategic Command must adapt to changes in the world, including easing new capabilities, rebuilding communications and command-and-control systems, and handling near-peer rivals such as Russia and China.
“While the current system is secure and resilient, modernization and sustainment of this capability is just as important as the weapon system platforms themselves,” he told the senators. “If confirmed, I will use my authorities to ensure that NC3 [nuclear command, control and communications] systems continue to outpace the threat.”
The ceremony for Gen. Cotton will take place during his promotion to the United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) in Nebraska on Dec. 9. Officials say that his replacement is not yet confirmed. A ceremony will be held on Barksdale AFB once Gen. Bussiere is confirmed.
Lt. Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere is currently serving as the Deputy Commander of the USSTRATCOM on Offut Air Force Base.
