Santee nominated for brigadier general

Congratulations

Tina Bailey (left), congratulates Col. Jay Santee, 21st Space Wing commander, on the news of his promotion April 11. Ms. Bailey is Colonel Santee’s executive assistant. Also pictured is Col. Liz Anderson (center), individual mobilization augmentee to the commander. (U.S. Air Force photo by Steve Brady)

Published April 13, 2007
By Steve Brady
21st Space Wing Public Affairs

PETERSON AFB, Colo. -- Col. Jay G. Santee, 21st Space Wing commander, was nominated by the president April 11 for promotion to brigadier general.

Gen. Kevin P. Chilton, Air Force Space Command commander, broke the news to Colonel Santee during a phone call that day.

"I was very humbled to get the news," said Colonel Santee. "Teresa and I are honored to be given this opportunity. We certainly realize this is due in large part to all those that we've known and served with over the years."

Colonel Santee's mantra and vision for his wing, "Strength and Preparedness to Save the Nation," has gained the confidence and support of many he commands.

During his time at the wing, Colonel Santee has vigorously promoted Blueprint-2050, a plan for Peterson's future growth, and seen the creation of the 16th and 76th Space Control squadrons here.

Those who work closely with the colonel were not surprised to learn of the promotion.

"We're obviously very happy for him," said Al Strait, 21st SW director of staff. "He is a terrific leader and is very deserving of the promotion. As our wing commander, he has raised the bar of excellence for the entire wing and I am sure he will continue that level of excellence as he moves to the general officer corps."

Colonel Santee entered the Air Force as a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1981. He performed flying duties in a variety of aircrew positions in the F-111 and EF-111, and has more than 1,800 flying hours with more than 120 during combat.

He was promoted to colonel April 1, 2000, and has been at the 21st Space Wing since August 2004, first as vice commander before assuming command in November 2005. Colonel Santee is expected to relinquish command of the 21st SW in July, when he will become the new vice commander for the 14th Air Force at Vandenberg AFB, Calif.