Veterans gather in recognition of 40 years of B-1B Lancer at Dyess

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Veterans across the nation gathered at Dyess Air Force Base (AFB) to recognizing 40 years of the B-1B Lancer.

The first ever B-1B Lancer was named the Star of Abilene and was delivered to Dyess AFB on June 29, 1985.

The B-1B Lancer was developed as a supersonic nuclear bomber to replace the B-52 Stratofortress following the Cold War. Dyess has been the home of the B-1.

Veterans at the event spoke with KTAB/KRBC on how they felt about the event.

Major Bryan Zak was in the U.S. Air Force and also served as the Defensive System Officer. He also served as the mayor of Homer Alaska. He shared with KTAB/KRBC that he also survived brain cancer. The event’s anniversary held a special meaning to him.

“I feel totally connected at everything surrounding me, spiritually,” said Zak.

The 7th Wing Bomb Wing Commander from Dyess AFB also Colonel Seth Spanier how exciting the event was.

“It’s a really special weekend, we’re lucky to do these about every 2 years… you have the first people to ever a fly a B1B back from 40 years ago. And you have some of the U.S. copilots that are learning how to fly today,” Spanier said.