Top tactical communications team demonstrates skills at Keesler

Published May 13, 2009
By Airman 1st Class David Salanitri
81st Training Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The 54th Combat Communications Squadron, from the 5th Combat Communications Group stationed at Robins Air Force Base, GA arrived here April 25 to demonstrate their tactical communication capabilities to Keesler.

The Best Large Communications and Information Unit in the Air Force for 2008, the 5th CCG's mission is to set up and provide tactical communications in a bare base environment.

With more than 200 personnel currently deployed, according to 2d Lt Matthew Kahley 54 CBCS, "We can deploy forces within 24 hours and have required communications up within 72 hours of arrival. On this exercise it took less than 32 hours to get our systems up."

The 5th CCG, which is commonly referred to as the 5th MOB, has set up a deployed site behind the Vossler Academic Development Center. This location was ideal for the 5th MOB to train and demonstrate a tactical communications environment.

"Whenever we go into the field, we take the necessary equipment so we can be self sufficient for three days," said Capt Robert Engelmann, 54th CBCS Commander. "Coming here, we conduct our operations the same as an actual deployment which helps us when it's time to deploy to the AOR. We'll be ready to fight today's and tomorrow's wars as well as help with humanitarian relief efforts worldwide."

Keesler, which is the training base of the majority of the communication career field, will have a chance to tour the exercise site.

"Invites were sent to the school houses prior to our arrival. We hope to promote awareness of the services we provide and demonstrate our capabilities," said Capt Engelmann. "It's always great to showcase what we do, but my main goal is to take care of my Airmen and ensure that they are prepared for future challenges."

The 5th MOB will return to Robins AFB May 8.