Colonel Trey Morriss is a distinguished retired United States Air Force officer whose career is closely tied to one of the most secretive and consequential missions in modern airpower history. As an Electronic Warfare Officer (EWO) with the 596th Bomb Squadron, Morriss was part of an elite cadre of airmen operating B-52 Stratofortress bombers at a time when electronic warfare, long-range strike capability, and strategic deterrence were central to U.S. national security. His expertise placed him at the heart of operations requiring precision, discretion, and exceptional technical skill.One of the defining moments of his career came during Operation Senior Surprise, often referred to by its unofficial nickname, Secret Squirrel. This mission marked the first offensive strike of Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and involved a highly classified, unprecedented 35-hour, 14,000-mile sortie that launched from Barksdale Air Force Base. Morriss and his fellow crew members delivered the opening salvo of the war, employing some of the earliest operational uses of conventional air-launched cruise missiles to neutralize enemy command-and-control infrastructure. The mission demonstrated the reach, precision, and adaptability of American airpower, and it helped shape the combat environment for the coalition forces that followed.Throughout his career, Morriss held increasing levels of leadership responsibility, including serving as vice commander of the 307th Bomb Wing. In this role he helped oversee operations, readiness, and strategic mission execution for one of the Air Force’s key bomber wings. His leadership was marked by deep operational knowledge, a commitment to aircrew professionalism, and a focus on developing the next generation of Air Force personnel.In retirement, Colonel Morriss has remained active in the veteran and military community. He has participated in public ceremonies, educational engagements, and commemorative events honoring both the Secret Squirrel crews and the broader bomber community. He has administered the Oath of Enlistment to new Air Force recruits during Veterans Day observances, symbolically linking the heritage of past missions with the next generation entering military service.Today, Morriss is widely recognized not only for his role in one of the most significant missions of the Gulf War, but also for his ongoing commitment to mentoring, honoring Air Force heritage, and inspiring the airmen who continue the mission he once carried out.