VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- U.S. Space Force Col. James T. Horne III, Space Launch Delta 30 commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Shannan Sanchez, SLD 30 senior enlisted leader, visited 30th Operations Support Squadron facilities at Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif., April 6, 2026. This was for an immersion tour hosted by 30th OSS.
The 30th OSS immersion tour highlighted the squadron’s five flights, including: the Intelligence Operations Flight, Maintenance Flight, Airfield Operations Flight, and Training and Devices Design and Engineering Center Flight; all of which support space launch and test missions at Vandenberg. SLD 30 leadership visited the 30th OSS weather flight first. U.S. Air Force Capt. Stephen Demetry, 30th OSS launch weather officer, won Air Force Weather Company Grade Officer of the year for 2025.
SLD 30 leadership also visited the Training Device Design and Engineering Center, a weather balloon site, and an aircraft control tower complex.
One of the TDDEC’s primary functions is to coordinate with customers and produce training aids, models, and full device replicas to help servicemembers train and fulfill their training missions at Vandenberg. Weather observation is a critical component in assessing ideal conditions prior to a space launch or missile test, supporting Vandenberg’s safe and agile launch capabilities. The 30th OSS Airfield Operations Flight provides a safe and effective airfield environment while overseeing airfield management, air traffic control and airfield services in support of various Vandenberg missions.