Correll said his priority remains constant as he assumes command, stating, “As I assume command, the number one priority remains the same: strategic deterrence.” He added, “Peace may be our profession… but that peace is achieved through the strength, readiness, and credibility of our strategic capabilities.”
By taking up the post, Correll becomes responsible for the stewardship of the United States nuclear arsenal, which includes intercontinental ballistic missiles, strategic bombers, ballistic missile submarines and Nuclear Command, Control and Communications. He underlined the need to advance critical modernisation of the nuclear triad and NC3 systems.
Correll said, “At STRATCOM, the strategic capabilities provided by each leg of the triad, coupled with assured nuclear command and control underpins everything the [Department of War] does in defense of our nation and American interests abroad.” He added, “As we bring the B-21 Raider, the Columbia-class SSBN, the Sentinel ICBM, the long-range standoff weapon, and the nuclear sea-launched cruise missile online, as well as upgrade our NC3 systems, we will continue to ensure the credibility of deterrence for decades to come – and continue to outpace the threat.”
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen Dan Caine presided over the ceremony and praised both the outgoing and incoming commanders. Addressing Correll, he said, “You are made for this role and having served with you for so many years in so many places that we are not at liberty to talk about, I can’t think of a better leader to follow another incredible leader.”
Caine also marked the 84th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, noting its relevance to those serving at USSTRATCOM. He told personnel, “You’re quiet professionals, ready whenever the nation calls,” and added, “Your charge is constant readiness, eyes open and being on the account 24/7/365.”
Cotton received the Defense Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of 39 years of service, and USSTRATCOM was awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Award for exceptional performance. Cotton described his time at the command as the most professionally rewarding of his career.
“I’d like to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Your sacrifices, often unseen and unheralded, keep America safe,” Cotton said. He added, “You are the reason that I, and each commander before me – going all the way back to Strategic Air Command – can pass the torch, having prevented conflict between great powers.”
Cotton also noted improvements achieved during his tenure, including modernisation of strategic infrastructure, the establishment of the Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Center and efforts to strengthen nuclear understanding across government. He said, “These accomplishments are a testament to your hard work, your ingenuity, and your unwavering dedication to the mission,” and added, “As I pass the torch, I do so with a deep sense of appreciation and optimism.”
Following the transfer of command, Correll set out his expectations for the future and for the more than 40,000 personnel who support USSTRATCOM’s deterrence mission. He said, “There can be no doubt in any potential adversary’s mind on the readiness and capability of our forces; Gen. Cotton saw to that during his tenure, and I will do the same.”
Correll continued, “My confidence doesn’t come solely from our combat capabilities. My confidence comes from the professionals at STRATCOM – the very essence of our credibility. Everyone plays a key role in our mission. These warfighters are the backbone of our capabilities, and they always will be. They are the reason our deterrence is credible, our Allies are assured, and our adversaries are on notice.”
The ceremony also confirmed U.S. Air Force Lt Gen Michael Lutton as deputy commander and U.S. Army Command Sgt Maj JoAnn Naumann as command senior enlisted leader.
