Tech. Sgt. Shawn Burgett, 1st Combat Communication Squadron, power production technician, checks the voltage on the power distribution panel during a Quick Reflex Exercise, Ramstein Air Base Germany, March 09, 2012. The QRE is to test new unit type code and familiarize Airmen of the 1st Combat Communication Squadron with what is expected from them when they are deployed. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Aaron-Forrest Wainwright)

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Staff Sgt. Johnny McCown, 1st Combat Communication Squadron, transmission systems supervisor, configures satellite terminal, Hawkeye during a Quick Reflex Exercise Ramstein Air Base Germany, March 09, 2012. The QRE is to test new unit type code and to familiarize Airmen of the 1st CCBS with what is expected from them when they are deployed. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Aaron-Forrest Wainwright)

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Staff Sgt. James Welker, 1st Combat Communication Squadron, airfield system technician, works on on power supply for the tactical air navigation system panel during a Quick Reflex Exercise, Ramstein Air Base Germany, March 9, 2012. The QRE is to test new unit type code and to familiarize Airmen of the 1st CCBS with what is expected from them when they are deployed. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Aaron-Forrest Wainwright)

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First in, last out; 1st CBCS

Published March 12, 2012
By Senior Airman Aaron-Forest Wainwright
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- Airmen from the 1st Combat Communication Squadron set up equipment during a Quick Reflex Exercise, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, March 9, 2012. The field training exercise helps Airmen improve equipment proficiency and maintain the highest degree of operational readiness as well as physical fitness.

The 1st CBCS mission provides fast communications and air traffic control abilities throughout Europe, Africa and the Middle East. It also requires these personnel to be some of the first US forces to hit the ground in deployable locations and the last to leave, hence the motto, "First in, last out".