The Curtis E. LeMay Bombing Trophy entered service in 1980. Strategic Air Command introduced it to replace the long-standing Bombing Trophy, which no longer matched the command’s operational focus. By the late 1970s, aircraft technology and mission profiles had changed. Modern bombers relied on low-level penetration, precise navigation, and strict time control. These demands differed from the criteria used when the original trophy was created. SAC wanted an award that reflected modern combat expectations.
The new trophy honored General Curtis E. LeMay, who served as Commander in Chief of Strategic Air Command from October 1948 to June 1957. He was known as the father of SAC. His leadership shaped its early doctrine and emphasized realistic training and measurable standards.
LeMay took command when SAC’s readiness and bombing accuracy were low. He responded by creating annual bombing competitions to improve performance and develop a rigorous evaluation system. These competitions became a central part of SAC culture and reinforced precision as a critical skill.
The LeMay Trophy continued this tradition. Norden Systems Division of United Technologies, later called Norden Systems, donated the trophy and smaller replicas for individual recognition. The winning unit held the main trophy for one year before passing it to the next winner. Scoring included high- and low-level bombing and time control, reflecting the missions of modern bomber crews.
In 1982 SAC introduced the General John D. Ryan B-52 Trophy. This award addressed concerns about unfair competition between B-52 units and those flying the more advanced FB-111. The FB-111’s modern systems allowed greater bombing accuracy, giving its crews an edge in the LeMay Trophy competition. The Ryan Trophy created a separate category for B-52 crews and restored fairness in the annual evaluations.
The LeMay Trophy was presented at the Strategic Air Command (SAC) Bombing Competition (which was known by names like Giant Voice or Proud Shield during these years):
| Year | Unit Winner | Base | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | 380th BMW | Plattsburgh AFB NY | FB-111A |
| 1981 | 509th BMW | Pease AFB NH | FB-111A |
| 1982 | 380th BMW | Plattsburgh AFB NY | FB-111A |
| 1983 | 28th BMW | Ellsworth AFB SD | B-52H |
| 1984 | 617 Sq (RAF) | RAF Marham | Tornado |
| 1985 | 27th BMW | RAF Marham | Tornado |
| 1986 | 92nd BMW | Fairchild AFB WA | B-52G |
| 1987 | 379th BMW | Wurtsmith AFB MI | B-52G |
| 1988 | 27th TFW | Cannon AFB NM | F-111D |
| 1989 | 509th BMW | Pease AFB NH | FB-111A |
| 1990 | CANCELED for Operation DESERT SHIELD | ||
| 1991 | CANCELED for Operation DESERT STORM | ||
| 1992 | 7th BMW | Carswell AFB TX | B-52H |
Further Reading
Bibliography
- Strategic Air Command: People, Aircraft, and Missiles. (1990). United States: Nautical & Aviation Publishing Company of America.
- Lloyd, A. T. (2000). A Cold War Legacy: A Tribute to the Strategic Air Command, 1946-1992. United States: Pictorial Histories.
