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SECAF accepts painting encapsulating 50 years of ICBM history

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jennifer Viveiros
  • 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs
F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. --   The 50th ICBM anniversary commemoration and symposium events concluded at the base theater here Oct. 9 with the presentation of an original piece of artwork to Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley. 

Capt. Warren Neary, Twentieth Air Force, composed a painting "capturing the first generation of ICBM Airmen passing on the torch of strategic deterrence to the latest and greatest generation of Airmen"  for the Air Force art program. 

The painting symbolizes generations of ICBM Airmen providing, as the title states, America's strategic backstop, 50 years strong, Captain Neary said. 

"As an Air Force artist from the ICBM community, I enjoyed the opportunity to capture some of the contributions and highlights of our Airmen at this milestone," he added. 

"Warren has really captured the essence of many of the stories of the ICBM force," Maj. Gen. Roger Burg, 20th AF commander, said. 

General Burg said it's a great privilege to present the painting on behalf of the Air Force. He hopes the piece will inspire conversations and increase awareness about the ICBM force and its mission back in Washington, D.C. 

"In the hall of the pentagon, the U.S. Air Force art collection is known as, perhaps, the best," Secretary Donley said. "There is no doubt in my mind that this is a worthy addition to what is already a wonderful collection. It will have a place of honor in our Air Force. 

"Captain Neary, thank you for a beautiful and brilliant piece of art that captures the history, dedication, complexity -- just every aspect -- of this vital mission of nuclear deterrence, " he added. 

According to Captain Neary, less than 1 percent of the artwork in the Air Force art program represents the accomplishments of the ICBM force. He said he wanted to change that. 

Secretary Donley accepted the painting, stating it will remain on permanent display in the office of the secretary of the Air Force.