Somebody's going to make the request: it has to come from at least one very high-ranking officer. A theater commander such as CINC-WEST or CINC-FAR EAST could do it (or both make their requests simultaneously or nearly so); or it's the Defense Minister upon recommendation of the Chief of the General Staff (who would get that from the some 100 Generals under him).
Even in Hackett's Third World War books, SACEUR maintained at least 5% of his dual-capable aircraft on alert for possible nuclear strike missions. Having some F-15Es, F-111s, Tornados, etc. locked and cocked for nuclear strike is a no-brainer-and the alert force might be increased if it looks like the Soviets may be getting ready for possible nuclear action.
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Treat everyone you meet with kindness and respect, but always have a plan to kill them.
Old USMC Adage
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