BUCKLEY SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo -- Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force, John Bentivegna, visited Buckley Space Force Base, Colo., on May 27, 2025.
Bentivegna is no stranger to Buckley SFB as he previously served here on three separate occasions. He was stationed here as a ground systems operator in 1998 and then returned a few years later as the Mission Management Division superintendent in 2007. In his final term, he served as the 460th Operations Group superintendent in 2013.
“I love the mission, and I love the people,” Bentivegna said. “So, it is always great to come back and still see some familiar faces.”
This visit wasn’t just a routine tour; it was a catalyst for connection with the Guardians, Airmen, and civilians who enable the country to contest and control the space domain. Bentivegna specifically recognized support function Airmen for the value they bring to Space Base Delta 2’s warfighter mission by amplifying the Guardian spirit and projecting lethality in today’s highly contested environment.
“The CMSSF’s visit reaffirmed the critical role Airmen play in executing the U.S. Space Force mission,” explained Chief Master Sgt. Marlene Locks, SBD 2 senior enlisted leader. “Our Airmen remain essential to our success—enabling operations, sustaining readiness, and driving innovation across every function that supports space superiority.”
After integrating with Buckley SFB leadership, Bentivegna received briefings and tours highlighting the installation’s pivotal role in defending U.S. interests in space. The tours showcased the diverse support avenues that are the linchpin to Buckley SFB’s 24/7, no-fail mission. From the vigilant defenders of the 460th Security Forces Squadron to the nurturing caretakers of the 460th Force Support Squadron’s Youth Center, Bentivegna witnessed the dedication and professionalism that defines Team Buckley.
“You are all operators regardless of the badge you wear and the AFSC you have,” Bentivegna said. “When I met with the medical group, we discussed the innovative ways they are looking at readiness from a health perspective that allows Guardians to be employed in place during their commit phase. They are enabling us to be able to do that and they are critical in that role. It is a different type of warfighting that we are doing.”
At the heart of the visit was a group lunch where Bentivegna engaged personally with Guardians and Airmen. He listened to their experiences, answered questions, and expressed his gratitude for their contributions to the mission.
“There is sacrifice that comes along with being a member of the profession of arms,” said Bentivegna. “But the rewards are priceless. The pride we have in the work we do…I see that in the men and women of Buckley SFB, and I am proud to have gotten a chance to connect with them directly.”
The day ended with demonstrations from both the 460th SFS’s Combat Arms Training and Maintenance unit and the Military Working Dogs, showcasing the installation’s commitment to readiness, lethality, and the warrior ethos.
“We look at Buckley SFB as a power projection platform that enables the other occurring missions.” Bentivegna explained, “When we think about the amount of combat power, the amount of intelligence, and the amount of considerations for national security; they are executed from this little patch of land.”
The CMSSF’s visit reinforced the critical nature of support missions’ direct impact on maintaining space dominance. The time Bentivegna spent interacting with Guardians and Airmen at the tactical level reminded them that their efforts are seen, valued, and essential to securing the future of the United States.
“The men and women who are actually doing the work are inspiring and important,” said Bentivegna. “Thank you for everything that you do for your nation. Stay strong and Semper Supra!”