NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS -- Airmen from the 673rd Communications Squadron, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, and the 644th Combat Communications Squadron, Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, are showing what it means to be multi-capable while deployed supporting Operation Pacific Iron 2021.
A U.S. Space Force Guardian assigned to the 644th CBCS deployed with the team to provide combat communications support to members throughout the operation.
"I believe I'm the first Space Force member on Tinian and it's an honor," said USSF Specialist 3 Cameron Peck, 644th CBCS cyber systems operations technician. "I'm here as a network administrator making sure the cyber communication network is successful and working on the satellite communication servers keeping the firewall running."
The CS Airmen deployed during Pacific Iron are honing their Multi-capable Airmen and Agile Combat Employment skills working out of the airport on Tinian.
"We are here to support the ACE concepts throughout the operation," said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Iesha Richardson, 673d CS bravo team leader for cyber control operators. "We provide network capability communication service to members so they can communicate with each other effectively. Our role is important because the aircrews need to be able to communicate with ground crews, especially during flight."
The communications team came a few days before the aircraft arrived and began setting up gear and workspaces in preparation for the flying operations.
"From the start, our goal was to work together in order to be successful as a team," said Richardson. "We are not all stationed together so it was important to work as a well-oiled machine as soon as possible. We been practicing the MCA concept by learning each other's jobs and then putting those new skills into practice when called upon. We are all learning from each other and teaching new skills each and every day."
Using the MCA concept, the communications team has worked daily to ensure mission success.
"Communication between the air and ground crews is vital for mission success," said Richardson. "Our part of the ACE concept helps ensure effective communication so the fighter squadrons can generate resilient airpower and agile operations."
Richardson went on to discuss the unique opportunity her and the team have to participate in such a unique operation on Tinian.
"This experience has been extremely rewarding for my entire team," said Richardson. "My supervisor told me operations are where you learn your strengths and shortfalls and I'm humbled to have this opportunity."