VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. –
U.S. Space Forces – Space (S4S) held its quarterly Warfighter Resiliency Day on base July 11, 2025.
The events were designed to strengthen readiness by equipping unit personnel with tools and resources to maintain peak performance in demanding operational environments. Personnel had an opportunity to recharge, reflect and reconnect with each other through activities and discussions focused on mental health, stress management and overall resilience.
The day began with an all-call hosted by USSF Lt. Gen. Douglas Schiess, S4S commander and Combined Joint Force Space Component commander, and USSF Chief Master Sgt. Tina Timmerman, S4S command senior enlisted leader. The session highlighted unit achievements and provided updates.
Schiess outlined progress across multiple areas and emphasized the importance of building resilience through community connections and professional development. He acknowledged the unique nature of space operations, explaining that the 24/7 operational tempo and rapid evolution of the space domain create distinct demands. He shared updates on ongoing staffing efforts and the unit’s continued advocacy for additional resources in future planning cycles.
“What’s going on in the space world has increased rapidly in the last five to 10 years, and we’ve elevated this command to the three-star field command level,” he said, framing these challenges as signs of the service’s expanding importance and capabilities.
Timmerman complemented the strategic updates with developments marking the Space Force’s continued evolution, including proposed changes to the evaluation system and new service dress uniform status. She also provided guidance on possible future fitness standard changes and provided opportunities for personal development.
She highlighted the Guardian Resiliency Team as a valuable resource for proactively boosting physical, cognitive, or social fitness. Timmerman also promoted the Guardian Arena, a weeklong competition scheduled for December in Florida, as a showcase of Space Force unity, blending competition, camaraderie, and career development.
Building on these organizational developments, Debbie Schiess, key support liaison mentor, emphasized that resiliency extends beyond individual service members to include families, underscoring the critical role family support in warfighter readiness.
“Don’t just tell your spouse we have resources—help them connect,” she said. “The best thing you can do is walk into those places with your spouse to help them feel comfortable.”
She added, “Part of your resilience is having a resilient family.”
S4S key support liaison Catie Nafziger outlined expanding programs designed to connect military families with resources and each other. Monthly events range from game nights to craft sessions, all aimed at building community connections.
“We don’t want anyone to be an island—whether it’s you, the service members, or your family members as well,” Nafziger said.
Further strengthening the leadership team, the unit welcomed its first full-time Guardian first sergeant, Master Sgt. Vincent Spahr. His diverse background includes Army space operations experience and a commitment to supporting all personnel.
Looking ahead, the leadership team announced plans for continued warfighting resiliency events, community building, including a unit open house for members and their families scheduled for fall.