Des Moines National Security Forum learns about 132d Wing role in national defense

Attendees at the latest gathering of the Des Moines National Security Forum (DMNSF) convened at the headquarters of the Iowa Air National Guard’s 132 Wing in Des Moines July 17. The group was comprised of military and business leaders from the Des Moines area who joined together to learn about the role of the 132d Wing in national defense.

Brig. Gen. Stephanie Samenus, chief of staff, Iowa Air National Guard, speaks to attendees gathered for the Des Moines National Security Forum at the 132nd Wing headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa July 17, 2024. Attendees gained an understanding of the capabilities of the Iowa Air National Guard during the forum. (Photos by Senior Airman Nathan Osmundson/132d Wing)

The CGSC Foundation’s Simons Center hosted the event with the Center Director, retired Col. Bob Ulin, and Deputy Director Lt. Col. (Ret.) John Nelson in attendance. Also in attendance was CGSC Foundation President/CEO Lora Morgan.

The Simons Center, a program of the CGSC Foundation on Fort Leavenworth and Brownell’s in Grinnell, Iowa, were the co-hosts of the event. In attendance were Pete Brownell, chairman and CEO of Brownells, retired Col. Bob Ulin, founder and director of the CGSC Foundation’s Simons Center, retired Lt. Col. (Ret.) John Nelson, deputy director of the Simons Center, and Ms. Lora Morgan, president and CEO of the CGSC Foundation.

Leaders of the 132d Wing provided briefings on the Wing’s functions, dynamic capabilities, and collaborative initiatives aimed at safeguarding national security. The goal was to foster a better understanding of the 132d Wing’s multifaceted role in national defense and to highlight the importance of synergy between military operations and civilian support.

Throughout the day, attendees were presented with an array of topics, focusing not only on technological advancements, but also on broader regional and international security issues. Speakers provided in-depth analyses of current security challenges and proposed strategic responses to mitigate risks and enhance stability both locally and globally. The exchange of ideas underscored the importance of adaptive strategies and the continuous evolution of defense mechanisms in response to emerging threats.
Col. Travis Crawmer, 132d Wing commander, emphasized the importance of the Wing’s integration within the Des Moines metro area.

“As the Wing looks to the future, we want to optimize our position in the metro to support the national security of our community, state, and nation,” said Crawmer.

The Forum concluded with an insightful tour of the 124th Attack Squadron’s MQ-9 Reaper Remote Piloted Aircraft training simulator. This demonstration allowed attendees to witness firsthand how the 132d Wing addresses evolving threats through cutting-edge technology and innovative training methods. The simulator showcased the agility and precision required to shape effective national defense strategies in the future.

Col. Travis Crawmer, 132d Wing commander, presents an introduction and overview of the 132nd Wing mission sets and capabilities.

“Opportunities to meet with and see first-hand real operational activities such as the 132d Wing, are invaluable in helping our Forum attendees understand national security issues,” said Ulin. “We appreciate the time and effort the 132d Wing leadership invested in meeting with us.”

The CGSC Foundation’s Simons Center designed the Des Moines National Security Forum in the mold of its Arter-Rowland National Security Forum in Kansas City, wherein members of the forum meet periodically at guest speaker events to learn about issues related to national security. To help facilitate the new program in Des Moines, Brownells in Grinnell, Iowa, is the Simons Center’s local partner. Brownells Chairman Pete Brownell is also the Vice Chair for the Central Region of the U.S. for the CGSC Foundation’s board of trustees. The plan is to present at least four programs each year by subject matter experts on national security issues of interest to the business community. The next event in the series is scheduled for September. More details to be published soon.

Maj. David Zajicek answers questions from the attendees of the Des Moines National Security Forum, July 17, 2024, at the 132d Wing headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa. Zajicek answered questions about cyber security and its role in national defense.