Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas -- In dedication to the defining principle of vigilance, the 860th Network Warfare Flight and 960th Network Warfare Flight engaged in their September Unit Training Assembly where the cohesion of the Air Force Reserve Cyber Defense Analysis community would participate in an exchange of ideas. Both units elected to convene this meeting of the minds at the 960th NWF home station, Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.
Both units employ the CDA weapon system, which is responsible for monitoring, analyzing and reporting on unclassified telephone, e-mail and internet-based communications for operational security and network vulnerability disclosures. The units primarily consist of intelligence professionals analyzing the value of potentially exposed critical information and are supported by cyber professionals who maintain the weapon system.
Combining analytical prowess with proficiency in the cyberspace arena has created warfighters who better understand an ever-evolving environment where OPSEC is crucial.
The 860th NWF met with their geographically separated colleagues to discuss various facets of the mission, from how best to improve the familiar data protection missions and implementing deployable capabilities, to sharing their individually accrued lessons learned.
Commanding the Air Force Reserve Command’s only CDA units, Lt. Col. Shawn Dickman and Lt. Col. Mark Estlund discussed their profound responsibilities while jointly seeking out every opportunity to improve unit support, effectiveness, and unity.
After the exercise, the 860th NWF took time out to enjoy some fresh air and work on their interpersonal relationships by participating in Resiliency Day at Manawa State Park, Iowa, which is a short drive from Offutt AFB. Led by Master Sgt. Nicole Ketchum and Tech. Sgt. Tonisia Hardin, wingmen addressed the mental and spiritual well-being of their fellow Airmen while engaging in some spirited, but friendly, beach volleyball near lakeside.
Unfortunately, not every unit member was able to participate in the travels. That is not to say that they would be outdone. Team members that participated from home station did more than just perform mission back at Joint Base San Antonio- Lackland, Texas. Their very own Resiliency Day would be filled with friends, food, and a few firearms, and was hosted by Tech. Sgt. John Covington.