Tinker Airmen aid Operation Unified Response

  • Published
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. (AFNS) --  The 3rd Combat Communications Group stationed at Tinker Air Force Base is mobilizing to provide state-of-the-art tactical communications and air traffic control capabilities in Haiti.

As part of Operation Unified Response, the 3rd CCG will deploy approximately 30 Airmen with nearly 94 short tons of equipment to support disaster relief activities.

The 3rd CCG's sister unit, the 5th Combat Communications Group from Robins AFB, Ga., deployed a small communications package on Jan. 30.

"Our Airmen are exceptionally prepared and committed to providing first-rate support for this critical effort," said Col. Thomas Byrge, 3rd Combat Communications Group commander.

The 3rd and 5th CCGs fall under the 689th Combat Communications Wing headquartered at Robins AFB. The 689th CCW's mission is to "deliver combat communications for the joint/coalition warfighter, supporting combat operations and humanitarian relief operations anytime...anywhere."

These capabilities are vital to first responders, search and rescue teams, local government and police forces, and aid organizations. They provide real-time situational awareness to key decision makers and will enable air traffic controllers to direct inbound and outbound aircraft in Haiti.

The 3d CCG's 700 personnel are trained to deploy more than 150 mission systems to provide initial service to Air Force wing customers and other units in locations where these capabilities don't exist, and are prepared to do so under hostile conditions.

"Combat communicators are not strangers to this type of response," said Col. Theresa Giorlando, 689th CCW commander. "The 5th Mob and 3rd Herd have a long history of supporting humanitarian and relief efforts dating back to the 1960s.Our units have supported joint task forces in support of hurricanes Ike, Katrina and Gustav, and are eager to do their part for this humanitarian effort."

The 689th CCW elements are self-sustaining during the initial phase of the expeditionary mission until relieved by follow-on forces and supplies.

"We're proud to be participating in this humanitarian mission," Colonel Byrge said. "The chance to help alleviate suffering and save lives is in the best tradition of the American Airman. Our troops constantly train to deliver people and supplies anywhere they're needed."