Combat Control School Heritage Foundation (CCSHF)

SHADOW WARRIORS

2010-04-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

AIRMEN IN THE SHADOWS by W. Thomas Smith, Jr.
The Air Force is a major player in rooting out terrorists.
September 17, 2004 - National Review Online - When most Americans think of the U.S. Air Force, the first images that come to mind are of supersonic fighters like the F-15 Eagle or the new F-22 Raptor. Perhaps they think of B-2 stealth bombers, the big lumbering B-52 Stratofortresses, or C-130 and C-141 cargo planes. Some may think of nuclear-tipped intercontinental ballistic missiles, reconnaissance satellites, or super-secret subterranean command posts like the one beneath Colorado's Cheyenne Mountain. After all, aircraft, crews, and ICBMs have been the service's raison d'être since breaking free from the U.S. Army and becoming a separate branch of the U.S. armed forces on September 18, 1947.
Few Americans, however, think of Air Force "special tactics" commandos as trained and equipped to fight in a ground combat environment, when, in fact, airmen are often first on the ground during airborne and special operations.
Like Navy SEALs, Army Special Forces, and Recon Marines, the missions of these airmen are often classified; their efforts rarely make the papers. They don't duplicate the work of other "shooters": Instead they bring a number of unique features to the special-operations mix, including men, aircraft, and battle-field wizardry.
"The Air Force has always prided itself on things like high-tech information systems and space technologies, and that has carried over into its approach to special operations," Maj. General William W. Hoover (a retired two-star who currently serves as an advisor to NASA) tells NRO. "Our ability to precision-locate things, to insert people and weapons systems, and to communicate has simply been devastating to the enemy."
Beyond the science is the art. And that's where the operators come in.
Air Force special-tactics units are comprised of three elements (not including the pilots, aircrews, and support personnel). These include combat controllers, pararescuemen, and combat weather teams.
Combat controllers are specially trained paratroopers who jump in advance of large-scale airborne assaults—like the one conducted by the Army's 173rd Airborne Brigade over northern Iraq in March 2003—in order to set up, secure, and provide on-ground navigational assistance on landing or drop zones for inbound pilots and paratroopers. As the title suggests, the combat controller's specialty is establishing and maintaining air-traffic control in a combat zone. But as highly skilled air commandos who are almost always outnumbered by enemy forces on the ground, they often find themselves performing tasks outside the box.
Isolated, behind enemy lines or far out in front of advancing friendly armies, a combat controller might be tasked with coordinating an air strike on an enemy air-defense position. Equipped with special range-finding binoculars, a palm-top computer, a GPS (global positioning system) receiver, and a rifle, the airmen can clandestinely spot the target, direct an attacking pilot to it, and then leap on a motorcycle and race toward another target where he will repeat the process.
On another mission, combat controllers might be tasked with making a high altitude/low opening (HALO) parachute jump onto a field slated to be assaulted by larger airborne forces. There, the airmen will silently land, overwhelm and kill and any defenders who discover them, and prepare the way for inbound planes and paratroopers.
In the hours before the 1983 invasion of Grenada, a handful of combat controllers and SEALs conducted an open-water parachute drop off Point Salinas on the southern tip of the island. The SEALs were responsible for reconnoitering the airfield, determining the condition of the runway, then locating and determining the strength of nearby enemy forces. The airmen were tasked with positioning radar beacons on the airfield so that parachuting Army Rangers and other airborne forces would be able to find the drop zone. Unfortunately, four SEALs drowned in heavy seas, and the others were ordered to withdraw before completing the mission.
Nevertheless, the invasion was a "go," and just over 24 hours later, a team of combat controllers made the first parachute jump over the island's heavily defended Point Salinas Airport. Weighed down with nearly 100 pounds of equipment, the airmen jumped from an altitude of only 500 feet. A malfunctioning main parachute would have killed them. On the ground and under constant fire from Cuban forces, the airmen then directed transport aircraft ferrying two parachuting battalions of the Army's 75th Ranger Regiment over the airport. At Point Salinas, the combat controllers and the Rangers encountered the toughest overall resistance of the operation.
Air Force combat controllers trace their lineage to the U.S. Army's pathfinders of World War II. During some of the earliest American airborne operations, paratroopers were inadvertently dropped several miles short of their drop zones by pilots then utilizing crude methods of navigation. As a result, the Army began training pathfinders—scouts who parachuted over the target drop zone before the main airborne assault, secured the field, and then guided the aircraft in over the target. As a means of signaling the pilots, the pathfinders used all manner of "visuals" from smoke pots to flares to flashlights and small fires. They also used crude radio homing devices that the pilots could follow.
When the war ended in 1945, pathfinder units were some of the first to be disbanded (the Army reestablished its pathfinder program in 1955). In 1947, the National Security Act was passed, which, among other things, established the Air Force as a separate arm of service. Soon thereafter, pathfinder responsibilities were assumed by the Air Force's new Air Resupply and Communications Service—the direct predecessor organization to the modern Air Force combat-control teams.
Today, the scarlet beret of a combat controller is highly sought by many young Air Force recruits, but not all pack the mental or physical gear to win it. The Air Force wants "men [women are currently barred from serving in special operations] between the ages of 18 and 27 who are athletic enough to enter the ranks" and tough enough to remain there.
All applicants for combat-controller slots must pass a rigorous Physical Abilities and Stamina Test, including swimming, running, pull-ups, sit-ups, push-ups, and flutter kicks. The test is followed by a grueling ten-week indoctrination course, affectionately referred to as "Ironman 101."
The course is characterized by constant running and calisthenics. But the most difficult portion is the "pool work." During pool work, students must demonstrate the ability to swim with a weight belt, tread water, drown-proof, and work closely with a "buddy" swimmer. The course is meant to enhance the water confidence of those who have what it takes and eliminate those who don't.
Following "Ironman 101," combat-control hopefuls must attend a variety of special-operations-related schools including the Army's combat-diver school, Navy underwater-egress training, Army parachute training, Air Force survival training, and field-tactics training. Additionally, students are trained in the use of ropes, skis, and motorcycles.
Upon successful completion of the combat-training programs, the students must earn the second part of their title, "controller." To do so, they attend the Air Force's air-traffic-control school, where they ultimately become certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.
To suggest that their training is tough is an understatement. In fact, only seven men out of a total of 130 candidates in Combat Control class 02-04 stayed the course and graduated in December 2002.
The second element of Air Force special tactics is pararescue. These airmen, recognizable by their maroon berets, are trained to save lives by jumping, swimming, or fighting their war overland into enemy-held territory in order to rescue wounded American soldiers or downed pilots. Like combat controllers, pararescuemen are all parachute, dive, and survival qualified, but they also undergo a demanding medical course followed by a recovery-and-rescue course.
The third special-tactics element is the combat weather team. A unique force, a combat weather team is comprised of parachute-qualified meteorologists armed with pistols and assault rifles for personal protection on the ground. The mission of the gray-bereted "weathermen" is to gather and update real-time weather data during special operations.
Like all special-operations forces, members of Air Force special tactics are usually deployed with the "bare minimum" supplies and equipment needed to complete their mission: just the basics that will sustain them for up to 72 hours without being re-supplied. Beyond that time, the airmen will find themselves in dire need of "consumables"—food, water, batteries, vehicle fuel, and additional equipment that may not have been factored into the needs of the original mission.
Today, 57 years after its establishment as a separate service, the Air Force maintains approximately 370,473 men and women in uniform (not counting the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard). Counting special-operations pilots, crews, and special-tactics airmen, there are 12,735 active-duty personnel assigned to Air Force special operations. It's a number that will increase as the special-operations community continues to expand.
During the early days of the war on terror, airmen were among the first to see action. In one instance, according to General Hoover, a special-tactics team jumped into Afghanistan, secured a tower at a deserted airport, and from there, coordinated air strikes on Taliban forces less than a mile away. "This kind of capability was a new dimension the bad guys had not experienced with the Soviets," he says. "The marriage between technology and special operators is one of the reasons we've been so successful against the enemy in Afghanistan, Iraq, and elsewhere in the world." And it's why we will continue to be.
_________________________________________
A former U.S. Marine infantry leader and paratrooper, W. Thomas Smith Jr. is a freelance journalist and the author of four books, including the Alpha Bravo Delta Guide to American Airborne Forces. The preceeding article was reprinted with permission granted by Mr. Smith in an email sent to Gene Adcock, EOS author on November 13, 2009.

KILL BIN LAUDEN

2010-04-19T08:12:00.000-07:00

     “...if you asked what tool of the trade would be the very last thing they would leave behind, you might be surprised at the answer. You would likely hear that is is not a tool that makes one nervous when it isn't there, but rather a capability that is not organic to a troop of Delta operators or Navy SEALs.
     Just because you are the best of the best does not mean you are the best at everything. Any Delta operator can vouch for the capabilities of the air force combat controllers, and very rarely goes on a "hit" without the men who wear the scarlet berets.
     Arguably they are the best-rounded and uniquely trained operators on the planet. The initial training "pipeline" for an air force special tactics squadron combat controller costs twice as much time and sweat as does the journey to become a Navy SEAL or Delta operator. Before their training is complete someone brainwashes these guys into thinking they can climb like Spiderman, swim like Tarzan, and fly like Superman---and then they have to prove they can do so if they plan to graduate. And that is just to get to a place where they can do the job for which they are really trained, calling those deadly air strikes. The life of a combat controller is split between working with Delta and SEALs, with a little moonlighting with the 75th Ranger Regiment now and again.
     They carry the motto that would be hard to look another operator in the face and say---if it weren't true. "First There."
     In Tora Bora, we counted ourselves lucky to have the Admiral and Spike, and their capability...”

Dalton Fury

"Bomb Like There Is No Tomorrow." Kill Bin Laden
St. Martin's Press. New York. 2008. Pages 236-237

2010-04-19T06:00:00.001-07:00

21st CENTURY LONGBOW WARRIORS

2010-04-19T04:26:00.000-07:00

THE EYE OF THE STORM - EPILOGUE

As I recall, it was the summer of 2002 when I had the privilege of awarding the Purple Heart to MSgt Alan Yoshida, USAF, for the severe wounds he sustained in combat as a Combat Controller in Afghanistan. He was to go on to receive many medals for his outstanding performance of duty against the Taliban, all well deserved. But, he was also to do something very different; to be a very key part of a team of Airmen in understanding the new technology needs of Combat Controllers in special operations like those employed in Afghanistan. This informal team consisted of civilian and AF scientists, acquisition experts, and combat tested CCT’s. Over the next three years, this team, but especially Alan, focused on identifying capability gaps, surveying American industry for possible solutions, and trying out candidate solutions. Even though it unnerved some in the acquisition community, Alan’s intense focus and, to be honest, the dedicated top cover and resources provided by my partner, (CSAF, General John Jumper) and me made this happen. We didn’t want to wait until the normal bureaucracy “got around to it.” We wanted to make a difference in this conflict, not just the next.

This was the first war where airmen on the ground could call in dramatically precise high explosives from bombers and AF, Navy and Marine Corps fighter aircraft orbiting overhead. Based on ideas already under consideration by the Special Tactics leaders and my own experience with GPS devices, we postulated that we could tie together laser range-finding binoculars, a small computer, a GPS receiver, and a radio to provide fast, relevant and highly accurate targeting data to aircraft. We wanted to replace the “nine line” being written by a pilot on the inside of his canopy with a grease pencil. The initial systems would have to be strung together with the airman being the mini-systems integrator. By using commercial subsystems, we could deploy capability much faster, but we risked unintended consequences.

In Alan’s case, he was controlling aircraft in support of friendly Afghan forces when his colleague came forward to relieve him so that he, Alan, could grab a cup of coffee. His colleague continued the mission, but noticed that the batteries in the GPS unit were dying, and so he replaced them with fresh ones. What he didn’t realize was that the device would reset to its current location, and not to where the cursor had been before. This mistake resulted in Alan’s injures when a 2000 pound bomb fell near their own location. Luckily, Alan was low to the ground because he bent over to get some coffee off the fire.

So, the first goal of the innovative team was to organize a Battlefield Airman’s Operations kit which had the separate components integrated together, and to make it smaller, lighter, and safer. We also found that the individual Combat Controller carried about 135-150 pounds of gear, so the second goal was to lighten this load. By using composite stands for the optical equipment instead of metal, as well as getting smaller versions of other equipment, we were able to reduce the average carrying weight down to 105 pounds, with a longer term goal of getting it down to 85 pounds. Batteries are heavy and something we really didn’t want to scatter about the countryside. So, we experimented with various fuel cells (including one which did just fine burning vodka), thin-film photovoltaic panels, as well as tapping the natural heat of a person’s body. But, in the short run, there was no efficient substitute for batteries. Attention was then turned to searching for subsystems which used less power.

Another innovation we sought was to find a way that Combat Controllers who are separated and not visible to each other, but operating together, could not only communicate with each other, but could sense the relative location of each voice. Alan’s team developed a system that transmitted the GPS location of an individual so that a small computer could compare it to the receiver’s location and reproduce the sound with a spatial effect akin to stereophonic music. If your colleague was to your left, the sound in your headphones gave you the sense of his direction.

In another case, I wanted to increase the situational awareness of small units. To do this, we devised the concept of a small UAV which could fit into a CCT’s rucksack, be launched by hand, be GPS guided, fly for about a half an hour with at least one optical sensor streaming video to the CCT’s computer, be able to circle a target of interest as directed by the CCT, and land at a predetermined point. We did this, and even I could fly it (I tested each of the innovations which made Alan’s cut.) Unfortunately, almost immediately after I relinquished my position as SecAF in 2005, the acquisition community took control of this and other of Alan’s programs. It was not until the summer of 2007 that the lumbering process made its choice. The UAV was different to a small degree, but better (you can have either an EO or an IR sensor depending on time of day.) However, Alan and his team had more than an “80% solution” years earlier. General Mike Ryan used to refer to the Air Force’s “acquisition tyranny” and this was a case to prove him right. The whole sad story is contained in a MIT doctoral dissertation done by an Air Force Systems Engineer.

Why my interest? A number of years before I became the Secretary, during a visit to Israel, I had had a lengthy discussion with a retired Israeli Air Force general who set up a small “think tank” which he named “Longbow.” His thesis was that, like the British at Agincourt, we would be well advised to devote R&D funds to make the individual ground troop (of any variety) as militarily powerful as possible in combat. He would need sensors and weapons and other systems to exploit the remarkable brain that a free man could bring to the fight. Then, the duty of commanders was to devise integrating technologies and systems which permitted these superbly equipped and trained fighting men to operate in concert as a highly integrated team. His belief was that such fighting teams would be incredibly effective in combat.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

“At Agincourt many centuries ago, noblemen and peasants alike witnessed the might of a small group of men who brought death and destruction from above against enemy foot soldiers and armored knights. These dedicated and well-trained men with their Longbows were the key to Henry V’s defeat of the French that day, even though he was greatly outnumbered.”

“Air Force Special Tactics Combat Controllers are today’s Longbow fighters. Individually, they are specially selected, specially trained, and, in support of special operations, almost daily bring American airpower to bear on our nation’s enemies. Indeed, they are very remarkable warriors, and this book will help many understand why so many of us hold our Combat Controllers in such incredibly high regard.”* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I was convinced that he was right, and once I understood the remarkable talent contained in Special Tactics, I recognized that there were such teams in our Air Force. The question, then, was how to make them even better. I did my best to bring my belief to anyone in the leadership of the U.S. Air Force who would listen, and in Generals John Jumper and Paul Hester I found kindred spirits. My determination that airmen like Alan Yoshida should have the very best in technology to match their superlative training and culture drove me, as did my heart-wrenching duty to join John Jumper in presenting two Air Force Crosses to the widows of a Combat Controller and a Special Tactics Pararescueman.

I have been privileged to work with Alan and other wonderful airmen to make Special Tactics even better. I also am proud that, in cooperation with some wonderful AFSOC Commanders, we have been able to build a new Combat Control School and a separate Special Tactics School.

Special Tactics is a significant addition to the Special Forces of the United States, as is AFSOC more generally. These unique warriors permit small units to operate very effectively without having to haul massive firepower with them. They need only turn to the Combat Controller in their team; not long thereafter the Heavens will rain down precise and dramatic firepower on the enemy.

Can you imagine my sorrow, then, to see some of our best cadets at the Air Force Academy switch Services to join Navy SEAL teams because most of them knew nothing about our Air Commandos? But, on one trip to the Academy, my aide, Major (now Colonel) “RA” Armfield was approached by a Cadet and asked questions about what he was and what he did. RA “saved” this Cadet, and he now also proudly wears the red beret. The stories of our fellow airmen who make up AFSOC and Special Tactics should be required reading for every cadet in Colorado Springs and at every AFROTC unit!

James G. Roche

Twentieth Secretary of the U.S. Air Force

CCA Honorary Life Member #4

CCT War Memorial

2010-04-18T06:43:00.001-07:00

BENINI HERITAGE CENTER
THE STORY BEHIND THE EYE OF THE STORM WAR MEMORIAL

THE EYE OF THE STORM (EOS), seen in the first photograph above, is the title given to a group of three, larger-than-life statues proposed for future installation at the Combat Control School (CCS) at Pope AFB, North Carolina. When completed, the EOS War Memorial (aka Combat Control War Memorial) will be a monument to combat controllers past, present and future. Plans call for the new War Memorial to be placed near the existing flag pole and CCT Fallen Warrior Memorial, shown in the circular drive in the CCS drawing above. Double click photograph to enlarge.

The EOS War Memorial is a grouping of three, individual combat controllers, shown is an idealized formation at the control point of a drop zone. One (left) is the air traffic controller; the second (center) is operating long-haul communications; a third (right) is providing team security and standing ready to step into either control position. Each statue is individually cast and will be set in a formation in the vicinity of the CCS Memorial Walkway.

The eye of the storm refers to the center of a hurricane - a relatively quiet zone - around which scores of turbulent forces are violently churning and - in some cases - raining death and destruction. In the CCS EOS scenario, the combat controllers are depicted at the center of air operations - a location known as the air-head, air traffic control point. It is the job of combat controllers to integrate, synchronize and control air power at the targeted objective.

In many operations, the EOS is at the center of relatively mundane aerial delivery operations – either by parachute or air landing assault. However, today’s combat controllers are fully capable bring destructive forces to bear on hostile formations; directing airstrikes against enemy forces. It is these airmen, their skills and their dedication to the Air Force mission that will be memorialized by the Eye of the Storm war memorial.

The Combat Control War Memorial will be placed in front of the Combat Control School. Preliminary plans calls
for placement in the area adjacent to the existing Fallen Combat Controller Memorial, shown above..

Estimated cost of the Combat Control War Memorial project is $250,000.00.

Target completion date will be established when funding is secured.

WWII Combat Control Team

2009-11-21T09:39:00.000-08:00

USAAF Combat Control Team #1 - First CCT prepares for airborne invasion of Germany during OPERATION VARSITY in March 1945. (Double click photo to enlarge.)

HEADQUARTERS

IX TROOP CARRIER COMMAND

US ARMY, APO 133*

23 January 1945

SUBJECT: Troop Carrier Combat Control Teams.

TO: 1ST Lt Norman C. Wilmeth, O-400455

1. You men gathered here today have been hand-picked from twenty-five hundred (2,500) glider pilots of this command to do your part in a special project for the Commanding General of the IX Troop Carrier Command
2. This project is the formation and training of eight (8) Troop Carrier Combat Control Teams.
3. The following nine (9) officers who have a minimum of 500 hours of power time and two (2) combat missions will take a course in flying control procedures. This will complete your qualifications for assignment as operations officers in command of the team. Your project officer is Captain Maurice M Orovitz, Command Flying Control Officer.

• 1st Lt. Norman C. Wilmeth O-400455
• 1st Lt. Richard K. Fort, Jr. O-559714
• 2nd Lt. Milton Linn O-525168
• 2nd Lt. Charles L. Mann O-1998292
• 2nd Lt. Frank E. Luckenback O-1996314
• 2nd Lt. Burdette E. Townsend O-1996169
• 2nd Lt. L. J. Cordier O-1999632
• 2nd Lt. T. M. Brown O-5422779
• 2nd Lt. C. A. Jensen O-543857

--------------------------------
*Editor’s Note: From information found in the USAF Historical Research Center, (Maxwell AFB, Alabama) “Guide to Stations where USAAF personnel served in the United Kingdom during World War II” complied by Captain Barry Anderson, dated 31 January 1985. The station listed as APO-133 was also identified as AAF # 472 and was located at Ascot (Cunninghill Park), Berkshire. The report listed principal units as Headquarters, 9th Air Force and Headquarters, IX Air Force Service Command.
---------------------------------

4. The following twenty-six (26) glider pilots will be trained in code, ciphers, maintenance, operation of 299, 183 and 522 sets, cryptographic and air coordination procedures. Your project officer will be Capt G. W. Powell of the Communications Section.

• 1st Lt. Raby W. Padgett O-533029
• 2nd Lt. Donald R. Nelson O-1999569
• 2nd Lt. William D. Fasking O-1996130
• 2nd Lt. Thomas J. Kilker, Jr. O-1996149
• F/O Chester E. Brooks T-121411
• F/O R. W. Corin T-121045
• F/O Basil S. Stafford T-857
• F/O James L. Sindeldecker T-121098
• F/O Paris L. Guy T-122345
• F/O Lawrence E. Moyer T-131776
• F/O L. V. Rounds T- 120460
• F/O G. T. Knight T-123412
• F/O Robert L. McGee T-128177
• F/O Eugene J. Kay T-125120
• F/O C. J. Kiel T-125120
• F/O Arthur J. Naughtin T-128182
• F/O R. R. Feuerstein T-121144
• F/O H. P. Ullrich T-128195
• F/O Donald G. Secor T-128190
• F/O R. E. Williams T-132190
• F/O Charles V. Miller T-122953
• F/O J. M. Haley T-128166
• F/O J. B. Harry Jr. T-128167
• F/O I. E. Rhoads T-121094
• F/O J. K. Gangloff T-122343
• F/O B. T. Hayes T-128168

5. The ranking officers of each group will be in command and responsible for the control of all personnel in his training class.
6. It cannot be overemphasized at this time that all members of Combat Control Teams must devote their efforts 100% to learning all they can while they are here. It will be too late to try to learn on the battle field. Absenteeism will not be tolerated.
7. All personnel will report to Billeting Officer in BuildingB-26 for assignment to quarters at this station.
8. The Troop Carrier Command Officers Club is available for your use and bus transportation is provided each night between 1800 and 2300 hours.
9. Mess facilities are provided on this base at the Officers’ Mess.

Signed

Glynne M. Jones
GLYNNE M. JONES
Colonel, GCS
Asst C/S, A-3

=============================

Document 2
Undated but probably March 1945

OPERATION VARSITY

SECTION 1
General WILLIAMS was informed that enough A-5 containers modified for C-46 use had been obtained for the initial lift. A total of 425 already had been delivered to the 313th Group and another 500 were on the way.

Following the conference, Colonel JONES (A-3) requested all parties concerned to remain for a discussion on training. It was decided that first priority would go to combining training of Troop Carrier and airborne troops.

Glider Infantry Trained as Unit

A limitation of 16 gliders was placed on each lift owing to the condition of airfields and the necessity for transferring large numbers of motor-less craft from England to France. A lift total of 16 were agreed upon since it enabled an entire glider infantry company to train as a unit.

In addition, an extensive air program was set up for Troop Carrier units with a view to solving the individual problems of each airfield in the limited time remaining before the operational deadline. Units were urged to utilize all flyable weather to the greatest extent possible when not committed to combined training.

For training in loading and lashing, 80 glider fuselages from the Eindhoven area were made available to the 17th and 13th Airborne Divisions.

Full Dress Rehearsal Inadvisable

A 100 per cent dress rehearsal of VARSITY was considered inadvisable in the few remaining weeks of training since airborne units would be unable to replace possible losses incurred. It was decided to set up a mock operation on a reduced scale approximately 10 days before D-Day to test communications, operational suitability of airfields, timing, navigational aids and related problems.

Upon completion of the rehearsal, all training would cease to permit proper staging of troops and necessary maintenance of aircraft. 20 March was established as a tentative date for terminate of training.

It was further decided that a pair of Troop Carrier Glider Combat Control Teams would accompany each Airborne Division. A glider pilot control would follow procedure to be laid down in the new Memorandum 50-21A, Headquarters, IX Troop Carrier Command, subject: “SOP for the Tactical Employment of Glider Pilots”, dated 11 March 1945.

General WILLIAMS strongly emphasized the need for continued training of airborne personnel in C-46 aircraft. He stressed, that two Regiments, one from each American Division, be selected for C-46 lifts and be moved immediately to the area adjacent to Achiet* (B-54) to facilitate training and to have these troops in position for actual staging.

Conferees were informed that VARSITY control would center at the Brussels headquarters of Lieutenant General LEWIS H. BRERETON and Air Chief Marshal CONINGHAM to FAAA** (Main) to IX Troop Carrier Command (FWD) and 38 Group. Overall plans would be drawn to at FAAA (Main) by representatives of IX Troop Carrier Command and the Airborne Divisions***.

-----------------------------
* AAF Station in France
**First Allied Airborne Army
***American 13th, 17th for Operation Varsity; American 82nd, 101st for Operation Arena.
-----------------------------

SECTION 2

On 8 March General WILLIAMS reported to General BRERETON that eight Glider Combat Control Teams had been specially equipped and trained to perform the duties carried out by air coordination parties during the Normandy and Holland operations. Operationally, each team could function as a completely self-sustaining unit.

General WILLIAMS stated that two such teams would be assigned to each Airborne Division to insure reliable communications. He pointed out that in Normandy two out of four air coordinated parties were lost due to enemy action, while the Holland battle saw six out of eight parties suffered casualties and damage with three units completely knocked out.

A further reason for employing a spare team was the fact that all control personnel could not be carried in a single glide; this factor caused a dispersal of team members. Under such conditions, an extra control team would permit reshuffling of personnel on the spot and accomplish necessary communication in a minimum of time.

In addition to combat drill, the control teams had been thoroughly trained in the use of codes and ciphers and the maintenance of their radio equipment.

Under the plan outlined by General WILLIAMS, two Combat Control Teams were scheduled for assignment to XVIII Corps (Airborne) during Operation Varsity.

Normally two gliders would be adequate to lift the necessary personnel and equipment of each team, but in this case an additional two gliders would be required to haul special pickup apparatus of both teams, bringing the total number of gliders to six. Every effort was being made to insure the operational success of the control teams, General WILLIAMS stressed.

Responsibility Delegated to Teams

A broad range of responsibility was delegated to the teams which were to establish themselves with XVIII Corps headquarters for the purpose of coordinating all outgoing messages through the Corps or Division commander. Further coordination was to be established with Corps G-3 to arrange glider pickups from combat landing zones if emergencies dictated such measures. In preparation for such a contingency, necessary pickup ropes and stations would be sent in with the control teams. Both IX Troop Carrier Command and XVIII Corps had agreed upon the desirability of such action if permitted by the tactical situation.

In line with this procedure, 16 gliders committed for the movement of a medical Battalion also were equipped with litter straps in the event it was considered practicable to evacuate patients by glider. Decision to make such a pickup was reserved by General WILLIAMS. In case the method was to be employed, the glider pickup location would be designated by the grid coordinate system.

Three Hour Weather Reports

The control teams were further directed to effect radio contact with the headquarters of both IX Troop Carrier Command and FAAA in order to facilitate the transmittal of three hour weather reports to D-Day serials and later to resupply formations. UCO code was stipulated as the medium of communication.

Information was to be relayed by the teams to IX Troop Carrier Command concerning known strength of resistance points that could be circumvented enroute to and surrounding DZ’s and LZ’s. Hazards in glider LZ’s and methods of eliminating were to be pointed out, if possible. Necessary changes were to be recommended in locations of LZ’s and resupply DZ’s.

Teams were to maintain contact with Troop Carrier serial leaders and to supply necessary pertinent information over VHF. They were responsible for setting up pickup stations, if called upon to do so, and transmitting coordinates together with timing and any other information applicable to such a task.

In addition, control teams would transmit all messages directed by the Commanding General, XVIII Corps relative to concentration of enemy troops, enemy air activity and any other necessary information.

Familiarization with Units

Preliminary to VARSITY, Troop Carrier Combat Control Teams No. 1 and 2 would be placed on five days detached service beginning 12 March with XVIII Corps for the purpose of familiarizing themselves with the units with which they would serve. Then they would proceed to marshalling areas.

The Glider Combat Control Teams of IX Troop Carrier Command were molded in the crucible of combat on the fields of Normandy and Holland. Their development was in answer to the acute need for on-the-spot reconnaissance from DZ’s and LZ’s during an operation and speedy communication to oncoming serials and operations leaders at headquarters.

Faulty relay of information under extreme pressure of fluid battle lines during previous operations resulted in continuous improvements that culminated in the formation of eight combat control teams to participate in VARSITY.

Two Teams per Division

Colonel JONES (A-3) pointed out that eight teams were formed in order to provide two for each of the American Airborne Divisions in the European Theater – the 82nd, 101st, 17th, and 13th.

A wide range of versatility was demanded for the four glider pilots and single enlisted man who comprised each team. One GP, with a minimum of 500 hours as a power pilot in addition to at least two combat missions, served as flying control operator, while each of the remaining three glider pilots doubled as radio operators. The enlisted man functioned as radio operator and mechanic. All personnel were qualified to drive a jeep and trailer.

In addition to possessing special skills in the use of radio and cryptographic equipment, each man was given infantry training with the airborne unit in which he was intended to serve.

Since control teams were to operate from airborne landing areas, often inside enemy lines under the most fluid battle conditions, their ability to survive was the only guarantee of a workable communications system. The paramount importance of combat training was obvious.

Jeep and Trailer

A single team’s equipment included a jeep and a one-quarter ton two-wheeled trailer with special rebuilt body to provide adequate space for radio apparatus and an operator. Standard jeep trailer could not accommodate an SCR-339 or SCR-499 radio and still permit an operator to work efficiently.

Either an SCR-399 or SCR-499 radio could be employed along with a PE-75 power unit substituted for the PE-95.

Also included in the trailer was the SCR-622 VHF radio to provide an auxiliary channel of communication to aircraft in flight. This set could be mounted in the jeep, but such an installation would require additional power equipment which was listed as a critical item and difficult to procure.

No Space Inconvenience

Although the team could function without the SCR-VHF, the set added less than 100 pounds to the total load without imposing any space inconvenience and therefore was considered a highly valuable aid.

Each team carried a set of documents to include three M-209 converters with special settings to provide approximately 32-hour security for any message; special code similar to air support request code but with vocabulary to fit the type of messages to be handled and assuring a longer period of security than the M-209; and air-ground authentication.

-----------------------------------------

NOTES ON THE KEYSTONE DOCUMENTS AND EDITINGThe keystone documents were transcribed from the two (2) “original documents” sent to the author by Mr. Norman C. Wilmeth, PO Box 577, Guymon, OK 73942 - on November 13, 2009. (See his story on Page 4, of CCT - The Eye of the Storm.) Included in the Wilmeth’s second document are four photographs. Although only marginally suitable for printing, they are included in the author's file copy for coordination purposes. The author is working with the Glider Pilots Association (Silent Wings Museum) to obtain better copies of the photographs.

Reformatting: The author has taken some liberty in reformatting the documents for clarity. Beyond the reformatting and the addition of notes, the document remains unchanged.

Why was eight CCTs, plus one spare, commissioned by the USAAF in 1945?

For the invasion of Germany, a total of four American Airborne Division drops were planned. A reinforcing Operation Varsity drop was planned, along with two more - Operation Arena drops - 100+ miles deep into Germany. The three follow-on drops were cancelled by General Eisenhower, crediting the first Varsity drop as a resounding success. (Editor)

FREE - CCT @ The Eye of The Storm

2009-10-11T06:49:00.000-07:00

Review manuscript of

CCT @ The Eye of the Storm

FREE - FREE - FREE - FREE
CCT @ The Eye of the Storm was born online as a history project; a labor-of-love begun by the author after his full retirement in 2005. Over time, the online history grew to the point where it became viable as a manuscript for the book.
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For years, Combat Controllers have clammored for someone to research and document CCT History. The online version of CCT @ The Eye of the Storm became the perfect vehicle.
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CLASSIFIED SECRET

2009-10-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

Jan Churchill (CCA Member LA-661) of New Castle, Delaware is a corporate pilot and writer. She has written several books to include: Hit My Smoke - Forward Air Controllers in Southeast Asia and On Wings to War. CLASSIFIED SECRET is the story of Air Force Combat Controllers fighting the Secret War in Laos.

"It was embarrassing to find out you had a two-year operation (in Laos) of which you weren't fully aware. It shows how people at major headquarters can't see the 'forest for the trees.' (General William W.) Momyer didn't know who was FACing his airplanes."
------------------------------------

Brigadier General Harry C. Adherholt

Father of USAF Air Commandos

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Jan adds another exciting story to the saga of FAC's in Southeast Asia, Sergeants controlling airstrikes that would shock the bureaucracy of the Air Force!
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Brigadier General John F. Flanagan

Author of Vietnam Above the Trees

--------------
"The enlisted Forward Air Controllers were a vital link that we needed."
-----------------------------------

Lieutenant General William P. Yarborough

Author of Bail Out Over North Africa

--------

--------
---------- ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY ----------

Copies of CLASSIFIED SECRET are available directly from Ms. Churchill. Order yours from janflyo2@aol.com . Book price is $34.95 and includes shipping to CONUS addresses.

http://www.janchurchill.com/classified_secret.htm

------------ SPECIAL RECOGNITION --------------

Jan Churchill donated the CLASSIFIED SECRET cover painting to the Combat Control School Historical Foundation, Pope AFB, North Carolina.

--------------------------------------------------------

Combat Control School Memorial Brick

2009-09-30T05:02:00.000-07:00

The Combat Control School Historical Foundation (CCSHF), working together with the CMSgt Alicide S. “Bull” Benini Heritage Center seeks your support of this historic fund raising project.

The Benini Heritage Center (BHC) is a museum of CCT exhibits and artifacts. It is an integral part of the Air Force Combat Control School (CCS) at Pope AFB, NC.

Out front of the CCS are additional exhibits, including the Fallen CCT Warrior Monument. The monument sits adjacent to the flag pole, directly in front of the mail building. The memorial bricks installation plan calls for extending the walkway around the base of the flag pole.

Two-hundred bricks are required for the ground breaking and first laying of bricks.

As of June 2009, fewer than 100 bricks had been ordered.

The long-term goal is to fill the entire green grassy area at the center of the circle drive.

We need your support.

DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY

TO BECOME A PERMANENT FOOTNOTE

IN COMBAT CONTROL HISTORY!

Visit the Bricks R Us website to

order your memorial brick:

https://www.bricksrus.com/order/ccsa/

EOS INTRODUCTION

2009-09-29T11:45:00.000-07:00

THE 1940s - CCT HERITAGE

World War II spawned both conventional and special operations roots of Combat Control Teams. Conventional roots sprouted in the European theater of operations (ETO) while the teams' special operations heritage can be traced to the Pacific theater of operations (PTO).

THE EUROPEAN THEATER - CONVENTIONAL OPERATIONS

1941 - The Germans at Crete

German paratroopers surprised the Allies by successfully supporting the sea-borne invasion of Norway and Denmark in 1940. However, they shocked the world with their first stunning victory over the British on Crete in 1941. The operation employed classic door kicking techniques in the seizure of airports and port facilities. In the Crete invasion, lightly armed German airborne troops overwhelmed a well equipped and highly trained British force five times its size. While this battle heralded the potential value of the use of airborne forces to the Allies, it proved catastrophic for Germany; nearly half of the German paratroopers were casualties. As a consequence, Hitler never used them in an airborne capacity for the rest of the war.

1943 - The Allied Invasion of Sicily.

The Allies first major airborne assault took place on the night of 9–10 July 1943 when elements of the 82nd Airborne Division and the British 1st Airborne Division jumped into battle near the city of Gela on the island of Sicily. Code named Operation Husky, the invasion of Sicily was counted as a major campaign of WWII. It involved both amphibious and airborne assaults. In the airborne operation, more than 200 C-47s were launched. Of those, a tenth were mistakenly shot downed by U.S. Navy gunners before crossing the coastline.

For those who made it, poor visual references and 35 mph winds wrecked havoc with two battalions. They landed 30 miles off the drop zone, and a third landed 55 miles away. In all, the entire airborne invasion force missed the objective area by a wide margin. Despite this lackluster beginning, American and British paratroopers were able to regroup and slow a German counterattack, giving sea-borne forces time to gain a foothold at the beach landing.

1943 – Gavin’s Decree

Major General James M. “Jumpin’ Jim” Gavin was the Deputy Commander of the 82nd Airborne Division. Because of the aerial delivery problems at Sicily, he decreed that future paratroop operations must incorporate a method for assuring the safe delivery of more paratroopers in the target area. With his decree, General Gavin planted the first seed for Combat Control Teams.

The Army Pathfinder team (the forerunner of the first USAAF and later, USAF Combat Control Teams) was created in response to Gavin’s decree. Pathfinder Teams were formed as a small group of specially trained airborne troops. Their mission was to jump in advance of the main force. Upon arrival at the objective, they would set up visual navigation aids and other markers that would guide the following airborne armada to the designated objective.

Despite the limited capability of early Pathfinder equipment, their skills and crude navigation aids made for a good combination. In operations where Pathfinders were used, airborne infantry operations were far more successful; where they weren't used, operations suffered. For example, during the Normandy invasion, Pathfinders jumped in 30 minutes prior to the main force and over 13,000 highly motivated paratroopers were able to quickly assemble and effectively engage the Germans.

1944 - At the Bulge

The Allied operation at the French village of Bastogne in the final days of December 1944, ". . . will live on in the minds of USAAF troop carrier personnel as one of the most critical, albeit one of the most tragic, of the war." By December 22, 1944, elements of the U.S. 101st Airborne Division had dug themselves into fields and forests near Bastogne but found themselves surrounded by advancing German soldiers. Believing they held the advantage, German officers, under a white flag, entered the 101st camp demanding surrender. Brig. Gen. Anthony C. McAuliffe issued a one-word, morale-boosting response: "Nuts!"

Without troop carrier resupply-ammunition in particular-the Battle of the Bulge would undoubtedly have turned out much differently, and McAuliffe may not have been as confident as he appeared. When the first airborne resupply missions arrived, each U.S. artillery position was down to about 10 rounds. McAuliffe later admitted, "Had it not been for air resupply, the situation would have become worse than desperate; it would have been untenable."

The U.S. lost 26 percent of the troops in a 50-ship glider tow to Bastogne on December 27, 1944, the highest proportion for any troop carrier mission of the war. To help iron out future communication and coordination problems, the USAAF trained Combat Control Teams to mark drop and landing zones ahead of oncoming troop carrier "serials" and have Pathfinder equipment and trained personnel in place on the ground when the troop carrier forces arrived. They operated on special VHF radio frequencies to assure discrete ground-to-air communications. In addition, inter-ship communications were established between troop carrier forces and protecting fighters over the target areas.

Later, the largest one-day airborne assault in history took place on March 24, 1945, when troop carrier aircraft and gliders carried British and American divisions to assist the Allied crossing of the Rhine River near Wesel, Germany. (Air Force Times, February 1999)

1945 – Operation Varsity

Near the end of 1944, the U.S. Army Air Forces (USAAF) developed glider-borne teams known as Combat Control Teams (CCT). Unlike the Army Pathfinders, the new Combat Control Teams were outfitted with visual markers, ground-to-air and point-to-point radios and electronic navigational aids (NAVAIDS) - such as the Eureka radar homing beacon. Additionally, the newly commissioned teams were charged with the responsibility of airhead air traffic control (AATC). AATC required the CCT to provide both terminal guidance (into the assault zone) and air traffic control of aircraft transiting the airhead. In later years, AATC added the responsibility for coordinating the high-altitude firing of allied artillery batteries and issuing intelligence advisories about enemy gun positions in the airhead. However, the first real test of the new Combat Control Teams would come in March 1945, during Operation Varsity.

The Operation Varsity map traces the routes of troop carrier aircraft from their origin
to the point where they crossed the Rhine River into the objective area at Wesel.

By the end of 1944, many of the problems noted during the invasion of Sicily had been fixed. Most C-47s were now fitted with self-sealing fuel tanks. Most of the CG-4A Waco gliders were now equipped with parachute arresters and reinforced noses. Glider pilots had gotten additional training with a requirement for at least five landing per month and additional infantry training. And finally, nine Combat Control Teams had been organized and trained to provide much-needed communications links with ground troops and re-supply aircraft. The addition of Combat Control Teams was seen as a long overdue action that had the potential for saving lives among troop carrier crews, while aiding ground forces with aerial re-supply and medical evacuation. In January 1945, allied forces were already preparing for an operation that would spearhead the invasion of Germany.

By March 1st, 1945, the allies began to line up at the west bank of the Rhine River, along a 450-mile front stretching from Holland to Switzerland. Three hundred and sixty miles to the east, the Soviet army was less than fifty miles from Berlin. In order to quickly secure a foothold on the east bank of the Rhine, plans for an airborne assault - dubbed Operation Varsity - were initiated.
For Operation Varsity, two CCTs were assigned to each of the Airborne Divisions; including the 13th, 17th, 82nd, 101st, and one team was held in reserve. In all, a total of nine CCTs were formed and provisioned for the operation. For Varsity, a Waco glider pilot and four enlisted technicians were molded into Combat Control Teams. Each glider-borne team was launched with a jeep and trailer filled with ground-to-air, point-to-point radios; a radar homing beacon and visual markers. Upon arrival at an objective area, they setup visual markers and transmitted terminal guidance information to oncoming troop carrier aircraft. In addition, the teams transmitted weather information and AATC instructions to aircraft approaching the area of operation (AOR).

March 22, 1945 - THE RED WACO by 1LT Norman Wilmeth, USAAF CCT, World War II

Operation Varsity heralded the introduction of the first Air Force air traffic control team into combat. They were more than Pathfinders, they were the first team of communications experts who could verbally paint a picture of the conditions at a target assault zone and effectively control activities in an airhead.

On March 22, 1945, while loading our CG-4A Waco glider for Operation Varsity, our CCT severely damaged it, putting it out of commission. On checking the availability of a replacement, we found there was none. I scrounged around and finally found a recovered Normandy glider that had just been rebuilt, but not yet painted. The newly replaced canvas skin was still covered with red primer. It was not yet on line, but was available, so we took it.

“I didn’t want to miss this mission or abandon my role as commander of the CCT, so I asked maintenance to release the rebuilt glider to us; they did! After it was towed to the marshaling area, we loaded it very carefully. My copilot for the Varsity Mission was Flight Officer Leon V. Rounds, and our crew chief, TSgt Neal L. Long. The second glider – the one carrying the trailer and radios – was flown by 2LT William D. Fasking and Flight Officer Lawrence E. Moyer.”

D-Day, March 24, 1945 – I was in the first wave of Operation Varsity, crossing the Rhine, to a landing near the town of Wesel. Accompanying us was a second glider filled with the rest of the Combat Control Team. We were infiltrated into Germany - crossing the Rhine - by glider. We were delivered several hours before the main force of 18th Airborne Corps troops.

“We stayed until we were relieved, and before long we became Airfield Control Teams (ACTs), working the forward fields during the heavy re-supply period following the crossing of the Rhine.”

Following the successful conclusion of the initial assault, our CCT moved along with the infantry to forward airfields, where we supported aerial re-supply operations and provided assault airfield air traffic control.

“The Combat Control Teams – after undergoing some operational streamlining – would find their most effective and extensive application in the later stages of the war as Airfield Control Teams (ACT). The ACTs coordinated the use of the crowded skies and airfields in Germany that were taken over by IX Troop Carrier Command for re-supplying the rapidly-advancing allied armored columns.”

Colonel Charles H. Young, from his book ”Into the Valley”
The Untold Story of USAAF Troop Carrier in WWII

1945 - ONE COMBAT CONTROLLER'S PATH TO OPERATION VARSITY by Milton Linn, 1LT, USAAF CCT, World War II

In 1938, I enlisted in the New York National Guard and was assigned to the 244th Coast Artillery. The 244th was later federalized and based at Camp Pendleton, Virginia.

When World War II was declared, my unit was sent to Ketchikan, Alaska. It was there that I volunteered for the Army’s new Glider Program. I was accepted and soon sent back stateside for flight training. I took my primary flight training at Plainview, TX: and basic flight training at Ft. Sumner, NM. I graduated as Flight Officer from Victorville Air Force Station, California.

After graduation, I was assigned to the 50th Troop Carrier Squadron (TCS), part of 314th Troop Carrier Group (TCG). While with the 50th TCS, I was commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant. I deployed with the 50th TCS to North Africa on the USS West Point.

Dubbed the Red Devils, the 50th TCS would soon undergo a baptism-by-fire as they charged their C-47 Skytrains into combat in May 1943. Launching aircraft from Field J, in Tunisia, they airdropped a battalion of 82nd Airborne Division paratroopers during the invasion of Sicily.

While in Africa I was transferred to the 44th TCS, of the 316th TCG at Cottesmore, England. Later, I was assigned to RAF School at Watchfield England where I became a control officer in command of one of nine newly formed Combat Control Teams.

During the war, I participated in the following missions with the 316th and other groups on detached service: Normandy, Southern France and Holland. I was the control officer on an advanced pathfinder combat control team for the crossing of the Rhine River at Wesel, Germany. Pathfinders consisted of elite troops, who set up radar beacons for landing airborne troops behind enemy lines. Around that time I was promoted to 1st lieutenant.

When World War II ended, I returned to my beloved country, the United States.

With permission Turner Publishing Company, Nashville, TennesseePublisher of WWII Glider Pilots, ISBN 0938021958

1945 – A WORLD WAR II COMBAT CONTROLLER'S EXPERIENCE by John Naughtin, WWII CCT

John Naughtin was born in Spalding, Nebraska on April 28, 1915. I moved to Idaho in 1937; married a native Idahoan Josephine Randleman in 1939.

In 1942 I was living and working a grocery business in the town of Werner, Idaho; I was married and 26 years old. We had a nervous draft board that had their eyes on three of us that were about the same status. Being drafted wasn’t our great desire – so when the Civilian Pilot Training (CPT) Program became available, we took advantage of it.

The program was being conducted at what is now Boise State College. With an already established airstrip and facilities for ground school classes already in place we were fortunate to qualify for the program. Don Schutt and I completed the program and in September 1942 were sent to Roswell, New Mexico. There we were assigned different flight training schools. He was sent to the West Coast for dead stick and the other necessary training for the basic CG-4A glider program. I was sent to Big Spring, Texas for my dead stick training and then to Ft. Sumner, News Mexico for my sailplane part of the program, graduating there in the spring of 1943.

I was then shipped to Wichita Falls, Texas for assignment to the CG-4A program. There, the higher ups decided to abandon the glider training program. Being staff sergeants, we weren’t too popular around there. They gave me two choices between (1) officers candidate or (2) radio schools. In May of 1943, I was assigned to Radio School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

In December 1943, after having completed radio school, the glider program wanted me back. I was soon sent to Louisville, Kentucky and immediately started back in the glider program - more dead stick and finally the big one. From there we were sent to Lubbock, Texas in 1944 for more training. Graduated from there in the mid-summer. Next we were sent to Maxton, North Carolina for advanced combat training. From there the whole class was sent to Camp Kilman, where we were told to prepare for a trip by boat. The Isle de France was our assignment. In September 1944, we were sent to the European Theater of Operations (ETO) in time for Holland Encounter. The boat trip lasted four days, landing in Halifax, England. From there - in a round about way - we finally reached Granthorn, England - our final destination.

I was assigned to the 61st Troop Carrier Squadron, 314th Troop Carrier Group. After a couple of months waiting around for something to happen, three of us from our squadron were called before the Commanding Officer who was rather reluctant to turn us loose. However, we had been ordered to report to Winsan Ascot, not knowing why. Well it was a Radio School renewal. This was the beginning of the Combat Control Team.

My three-man combat control team had a jeep trailer with both sending and receiving radio equipment. We trained in all means and methods of survival training - as an independent group. About this time the First Allied Airborne Army was putting together all airborne units under one command. General Gavin was brought back to Rheims, France to be in command. From Winsan Ascot, England we were flown to Rheims to get our assignment. Our group was sent to an airstrip outside of Munich, bright near the front lines. We had to clear an airstrip so the C-47s could land. Our job was to assist the evacuation of prisoners-of-war, in camps in the area. The prisoners were of many different countries. We had to sort and get them on the right plane for their home areas.

From there we were sent to Halle. Two weeks there and then we came back to our own units. Mine was the 61st Troop Carrier Squadron of the 314th Troop Carrier Group. Things didn’t last, we had to move to Wesel to prepare for the Rhine Crossing. We were right in front of the 3rd British Army and a Scottish Brigade on D-Day. From there, we had orders to Marseille, France, continuing to the South Pacific; just in time V-J Day.

Soon, I received my orders back to the States. I returned to the states in the victory ship SS Laconia sailing to Boston. After a long, tiring train trip I arrived in Utah on May 6th. Military career finished!

With permission Turner Publishing Company, Nashville, TennesseePublisher of WWII Glider Pilots, ISBN 0938021958

THE PACIFIC THEATER – SPECIAL OPERATIONS

THE USAAF WAR AGAINST JAPAN

1943 - China, Burma, India – U.S. Army Air Force (USAAF) General Henry H. (Hap) Arnold created a unique organization to support operations against the Japanese in Burma. Major General Orde C. Wingate, a British commander, was conducting guerrilla warfare with great results but with high causalities. To support Wingate’s behind-the-lines operations, Arnold wanted to develop a method of re-supply and reinforcement, a unique aviation force adapted to the unique mission. Rugged terrain and long distances further complicated the undertaking. General Arnold envisioned an Air Commando Force; a special group that could transport large numbers of troops deep into enemy territory and wholly supply them by air.

Colonel Philip G. Cochran, a veteran fighter pilot from the North Africa campaign, was chosen as the reluctant commander of the new aerial force, designated the 1st Air Commando Group. Cochran said he wanted to go where there was some fighting. General Arnold told Cochran he would get all the combat he wanted and outlined the mission. Arnold left Cochran with the freedom to execute the unique mission, saying to hell with the paperwork, go out and fight.

With tremendous autonomy, Colonel Cochran and his Air Commando staff carefully selected the aircraft, equipment and personnel, matching them to unique mission requirements. Transport, light liaison aircraft and gliders were selected to support the logistics chain, while fighters and medium bombers provided necessary fire support. With the selection process completed, an exhaustive training and rehearsal program began. The training Cochran selected was designed to hone the unit to meet Wingate’s mission requirements, but Cochran’s methods were unconventional and confounded outsiders. Cochran once said, “Visitors to our installations were confounded by the lack of rank, officers and men sweated shoulder to shoulder.” At first Allied troops were not sure the Air Commandos could do what they promised.

AIR COMMANDO! A HERITAGE WRAPPED IN SECRECY by Captain Timothy Bailey

1943 - China, Burma, India (CBI) Theater of Operations - When General Henry H. "Hap" Arnold created an elite war- fighting unit during World War II, and called them Air Commandos, he had no idea an Air Force tradition was being set in motion. A tradition few blue suiters know about today.

The setting was Japanese-occupied Burma, 1943. Geography made a "textbook" frontal assault on the Japanese impossible, and dictated the British take an unorthodox approach to the fight. Their answer was a commando unit that would use unconventional "hit and run" tactics to confuse the enemy, and destroy their lines of communication and resupply.

The concept depended heavily on air support, and with most of their resources committed to Europe, the British looked to America for assistance. Arnold met with British Admiral Lord Louis Mountbatten, the supreme allied commander for the theater, to discuss the air support plan. To honor Mountbatten's earlier leadership of British commandos, Arnold coined the phrase Air Commandos as a name for the unique unit created to fill the requirement.

The 1st Air Commando Group (part of the 10th Air Force) was a self-contained composite force of fighters, cargo planes, light aircraft, helicopters and support people. The 1st ACG, which adopted the motto Anytime, Anywhere, successfully attacked the enemy from the air, resupplied British commandos on the ground, and airlifted injured out of the battle area, eventually driving the Japanese out of Burma.

1944 - Operation Thursday - The fighter-bombers began preparing the battlefield in February 1944; at the same time they were updating intelligence on possible landing sites. On 5 March 1944 the airlift portion of Operation Thursday began in earnest. At the same time, pathfinder aircraft scouted the target area, looking for sites that could be marked as landing zones for follow-on forces.

Soon after airborne operation began, Pathfinders, using long-haul communications reported that initial resistance was light and aerial-delivery reinforcements were recalled. Rapid runway construction allowed follow-on forces a much safer landing area.

Over the course of the three months the Air Commandos delivered more than 9,000 troops, 1,300 pack animals and 245 tons of supplies. They had delivered the fight to the enemy. During the operation, Pathfinders coordinated air strikes using their ground-to-air radios; landed aircraft to evacuate the wounded, and were instrumental in the aerial re-supply of the infantry. Air Commando tactics, techniques and procedures were honed to a fine edge in 1944.

When the Burma Road was reopened in January 1945, the Air Commandos were deactivated. The men and equipment were absorbed into conventional units in preparation for the planned invasion of the Japanese mainland. The first use of atomic weapons overshadowed many of the Air Commandos accomplishments.

Almost everything the Air Commandos did was an important first:

First air unit designed to support a ground unit
First composite air unit
First air unit employed with total autonomy
First invasion into enemy territory solely by air
First nighttime heavy glider assault landing
First night combat glider recovery
First glider airlift of large animals
First major employment of light airplanes in combat
First air unit to employ helicopters
First firing of rockets from aircraft in combat.

The legacy of those early Air Commandos, those heroes providing specialized air power Anytime, Anywhere can be seen in today’s U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) units.

WHAT DOES ANY OF THIS HAVE TO DO WITH THE 21st CENTURY AIR FORCE?
September 18, 1947 – Washington, DC - As World War II ground to a close, the Armed Forces demobilized and reorganized. The United States Air Force was created when the National Security Act became law on 18 September 1947. On that day, Senator Stuart Symington became Secretary of the Air Force, and on September 26, General Carl A. Spaatz became the USAF’s first Chief of Staff. Major reorganization issues, the Berlin Airlift and the Cold War soon became the USAF’s highest priorities. As a result, USAF pathfinder and most tactical airlift issues took a back seat to the immediate challenges in Germany and the building of a long-range, strategic air force to fight the Cold War and Communism.

Reluctantly, the USAF modified their position when they established the first Combat Control Team in 1953. Then in April 1961 a unit was created at Hurlburt Field, Florida, by then-Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Curtis E. LeMay to train Air Force members to fight unconventional, "non-textbook" air warfare. This was in response to Soviet-supported insurgencies springing up in Third World countries. Borrowing the namesake from its Army Air Force forefathers, the unit trained Air Commandos and had a two-fold purpose: counterinsurgency training and combat operations. It was the first unit of its kind in the new U.S. Air Force.

"The Air Commando concept was to have a self sufficient, self-contained force that could deploy anywhere in the world and conduct operations," said retired Brigadier General Harry C. "Heinie" Aderholt, a commander of Air Commandos in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. As Aderholt answered questions about the Air Commandos, during an Airman magazine interview, it became clear why he's known by many as the "father" of Air Force special operations. From air dropping agents deep in North Korea during the Korean War, to commanding clandestine flights into Tibet during the anti-communist guerrilla uprising, to helping plan the Bay of Pigs invasion, Aderholt has had unique experiences qualifying him to talk about operations that were often carried out in secret.

Air Commandos like Aderholt operated in wars at locations worldwide, but it was in the Vietnam War that commandos made some of their greatest contributions. Initially deployed to Bien Hoa Air Base in 1961 as part of Operation Farm Gate, Air Commandos flew combat missions with South Vietnamese pilots, training them to conduct counterinsurgency warfare from the sky in the AT-28. As a result, Air Commandos flew some of the first combat missions in the conflict.
Operations required specialized equipment, Aderholt explained. Propeller-driven aircraft, like the AT-28, and others like the A-1 Skyraider, were better for the job than fast-moving jets. "In a jet, you burn fuel at an incredible rate, and you go too fast to maintain sight of a target. In these aircraft, pilots could remain over a target for longer periods, and maintain visual contact," Aderholt said.

In response to requests for support in countering North Vietnam's intrusion into Laos with the Ho Chi Minh trail, Air Commandos trained Laotian and Thai pilots to interdict the supply line in Operation Water Pump.

Counterinsurgency operations expanded to include combat operations directly supporting U.S. ground forces, more of which were being committed to the war. The need for close air support increased as the Vietcong, the South Vietnamese communist sympathizers conducting insurgency in South Vietnam, attacked and often overran friendly encampments. The "gunship" was born out of this requirement, and Air Commandos were the ones to turn its heavy firepower on the enemy.

The AC-47, a modified C-47 firing three multi-barrel mini-guns out side windows, was the first gunship. The AC-119 and later AC-130 brought technological advances and increased effectiveness to the gunship idea, including night-vision equipment and heavier armament, some of which are still used today.

"The gunship was an amazing airplane, not a single friendly fortress was ever given up to the enemy when a gunship was overhead," Aderholt said. "I think we should have gotten them sooner and made more of them. It would have changed the outcome of the war in my opinion."
A wide variety of other aircraft were used for operations, from light airplanes to helicopters. The A-26, a twin-propeller light bomber-type aircraft, similar to ones used in World War II, was tested on the Ho Chi Minh Trail in 1966. Air Force records show it was extremely effective in the interdiction mission.

While "truck kill" statistics generated by Air Force leadership showed Air Commandos were more effective than conventional forces at interdicting the Ho Chi Minh Trail, Aderholt said he met more than his share of resistance from all-jet force advocates while trying to get the resources required to fight.

Aderholt remembers a humorous wager with a wing commander that proved his confidence in special operations. Convinced the Air Commandos could not interdict the Ho Chi Minh Trail as effectively as conventional jet forces, the commander accepted Aderholt's bet: the winner would be the person whose unit destroyed more trucks on the trail that night. While he can't remember the exact statistics, Aderholt chuckles as he recalls how the margin he won by spoke for itself.

One of the most notable missions the Air Commandos participated in was the Son Tay prisoner of war camp raid of 1970. Army and Air Force special operators conducted the nearly flawless operation to free POWs from the camp. Although the North Vietnamese had moved all the prisoners, the operation was a watermark for the potential of special operations.

Jerry Rhein, an A-1 pilot during the raid, said the whole operation was shrouded in secrecy. He reported to Southeast Asia for the mission without knowing why until shortly beforehand. "We took off in radio silence the night of the operation," said Rhein. "The wing commander was up in the tower and was told that A-1s would take off at a certain time, and to ignore them."

It is important to note Air Commando contributions were not limited just to air operations. In fact it would take volumes to account for every story of heroism. "You name it, we had 'em: pilots, combat controllers, medics, combat weather teams, forward air controllers, everything we needed to be a self-sustaining force," said Aderholt.

This self-sustaining nature of the Air Commando force put every member through training above and beyond that of the average blue suiter, and every commando "pulled more than his own weight," according to Aderholt.

Aircraft mechanics would load bombs and work in the orderly room if need be. Medics, who were not officially qualified as surgeons, often acted as such when necessity dictated it. "Every one of my commandos was trained to use the radio; every single one of them could call in an air strike if it was required," said Aderholt.

Carlos Christian served with the 1st Air Commando Group in Burma during World War II, and as an Air Commando squadron First Sergeant during Vietnam. "I had a dozen jobs I could do, and there was no saying that you couldn't do a certain thing. That's how we got the job done - you just did it," he said.

Combat Control Teams were jump-qualified communications experts who went behind enemy lines to set up landing zones, drop zones or call in air strikes from hidden ground positions by radio. "The art of being a combat controller is being able to communicate with your fellow countryman, and ours were the best in the world," Aderholt said. So good in fact, that they operated for a time, contrary to Air Force policy, as Airborne Forward Air Controllers, according to Aderholt. In summary, Aderholt said:

"For a while no one knew who was controlling the strikes that were going on in Laos, but the job got done, and it was done well." He said, there was never a "bad bullet or a bad air strike” while combat controllers served as FACs. "The esprit-de-corps and teamwork among these people was tremendous."

"There wasn't any talk of AFSCs - if there were airplanes to be moved, medics and maintainers moved them together," he said. "It was always a tight team. They believed they could do just about anything, and when you believe like that, you often can," Aderholt said.

From the beginning to the end of the Vietnam War, Air Commandos showed a diversity of capabilities and missions that could never be documented on just a few pages. Close air support, interdiction, civic affairs, psychological operations, medical, and defoliant operations were but a few. At the peak of their strength during Vietnam, the Air Commandos never accounted for more than 5 percent of the total Air Force effort. Yet five of the 12 Medals of Honor awarded to Air Force people during the war went to Air Commando/Special Operations people.

In July 1968 the Special Air Warfare Center at Hurlburt Field was redesignated the USAF Special Operations Force. Subordinate units were redesignated special operations wings and squadrons, and all reference to "Air Commandos" was officially dropped.

Aderholt, who was the last general officer to leave Southeast Asia, remains a strong advocate for special operations.

"Special operations seems to be one of those areas that nobody wants to talk about, until it's really needed, that is - then it gets called on big time. "Look at special operations today, for example; these people are gone TDY a majority of the time. There is obviously a need."

After several realignments and combat operations since that time, Air Force Special Operations Command was created in 1990. These modern day Air Commandos carry on the World War II legacy as they refine the training and equipment required to conduct unconventional warfare. A prime example is the AC-130U with a pressurized cabin, and improved sensors and armament.
So far, the modern commandos haven't airlifted any mules or horses as the old outfit did in China, but they have still had a wide variety. For example, in Vietnam their cargo has included live chickens -- there's no refrigeration in the jungles -- rice, rubber soled canvas shoes, propaganda leaflets, ammunition, and of course, troops. Sometimes their high-value cargo has been a tape recorder with a loudspeaker system slung under the fuselage. They delivered messages of freedom, hope and security. In the 21st Century, the 193rd Special Operations Wing EC-130 Commando Solo aircraft are used to conduct psychological operations (PSYOP) and civil affairs broadcast missions in the standard AM, FM, TV and military communications bands.

In 2008, Lt. Gen. Michael W. Wooley, Commander of the Air Force Special Operations Command noted that AFSOC troops increasingly are soaring into uncharted territory. Modern-day Air Commandos are adapting to the emerging difficulties of fighting counterinsurgency wars in the U.S. global war on terrorism.

"Our force is maturing to the point where we can be assigned a geographic area and
be held responsible for that piece of ground," Wooley said in an interview.
From the determination in his voice, it is absolutely clear that his 21st Century Air Commandos are more prepared than ever to take the fight to the enemy - Anytime, Anyplace.

THE 1940s – CCT SUMMARY

WHY ARE THEY CALLED COMBAT CONTROL TEAMS? Its not certain, but based on my research of WWII, the U.S. Army Air Force (USAAF) and Allied Army Airborne Forces (AAAF) commands and; their experiences, decisions and actions preceding Operation Varsity, it appears that the name – Combat Control Team (CCT) – was somehow derived from the oft-used Army designations – Brigade Combat Team or BCT and Regimental Combat Team (RCT).

BCTs were – and are still1 – the common designation for the U.S. Army's primary independent-fighting unit. Thus, it is thought that the U.S. Army Air Force Combat Control Teams were so designated because they became the primary communications link between the Army BCTs and USAAF troop carriers. CCTs were introduced into an objective area with the primary mission of providing airhead-air traffic control and terminal guidance to the troop carrier aircraft.

However, unlike the early U.S. Army Pathfinders of WWII, the new USAAF CCTs were outfitted with ground-to-air and point-to-point communications equipment. In addition, electronic navigational aids (NAVAIDS) -- such as the Eureka beacon -- were used by the CCT. The newly commissioned CCTs were charged with the responsibility of airhead air traffic control (AATC). AATC required the CCT provide both terminal guidance at an assault zone and air traffic control of aircraft transiting the airhead.

Army Pathfinders - In the earlier WWII airborne operations, Pathfinder Teams were provisioned with only visual markers for drop zones and landing zones. They may have had some limited radio equipment, but there was no standard electronic ground-to-air communications gear. One minor exception was the sporadic use of a Eureka beacon, a navigational aid for radar homing.

Varsity Transition - For Operation Varsity, the USAAF decided to dramatically improve upon previous airborne delivery deficiencies -- such as those encountered at Normandy and Sicily. The Command commissioned a dozen teams to support the delivery of the Army's Brigade Combat Teams -- thus the name Combat Control Teams.

Army Air Force CCT - For Operation Varsity, Combat Control Teams (CCT) were provisioned with ground-to-air, point-to-point radios and radar homing beacons. They transmitted terminal guidance, communicating final approach information to drop zones and landing zones. In addition, the teams transmitted weather information and airhead air traffic control instructions to aircraft approaching the area of operational responsibility (AOR). This was the first appearance in combat of a military air traffic control team - a team of communications experts who could verbally paint a picture of the conditions at their target assault zone.

____________________________________________________

Note 1: A prime example is the 173rd Airborne Brigade [Separate] - an independent BCT that was very effectively employed in both Vietnam and Iraq. In 2008, Army divisions consist of four brigades, each an independent fighting BCT.

EOS Status Report - Delivery Completed

2009-09-29T11:31:00.000-07:00

September 26, 2009 -- The Villages, Florida – CCT @ The Eye of the Storm (EOS) Mission Complete by Gene Adcock – Today I delivered the last of more than 550 books to the US Post Office. The final group included eight boxes of books headed to APO AA, AE, and AP addresses. I have a minor concern for this group as they may be delayed by surface delivery regulations. But keep the faith, “they're in the mail.” The following are some stats that may be of interest.

The LARGEST ORDER came from the 720th Special Tactics Group. It was a consolidated order of 55 books compiled by LTC Jerry Kung (LM-524). Mike McRenyolds (LM-173), of Sgt Mac's Bar was a close second with an order of more than 50 books. My special thanks to these dedicated Combat Controllers.

The MOST DISTANT ORDER came from Richard Connell (LM-853) in Canberra, Australia. Richard is an instructor in an Australian Military Academy.

BOOK DELIVERY - I am 99% certain that everyone will have their book(s) by 1 November 2009. If you have not gotten your book by then, let me know.

FUTURE BOOK SALES – I will have book signing sessions at the CCT Reunion, 14-18 October and the Airlift Tanker Association Reunion, in Nashville, 28-30 October. At both events, books will be on sale at the discounted price of $50.00 each. Books are still available at The E ye of the Storm .

COMBAT CONTROL SUPPORT – It is impossible to properly thank everyone in the CCT Community for their outstanding support of the CCT History Book Project. Without your generous support, the EOS would not have seen the light of day.

CCT@The Eye of the Storm Press Release

2009-09-29T08:03:00.000-07:00

CCT @ The Eye of the Storm (EOS) chronicles the 65-year history of Air Force Combat Control Teams (CCT). It begins with CCT's introduction in 1944 and documents many of their now declassified operations from WWII through today's Global War on Terrorism (GWOT).

August 26, 2009 – Pope AFB, North Carolina – Today, the Combat Control School Historical Foundation (CCSHF) announced the release of the first written history of Air Force Combat Control Teams. It is a story about the men one Delta Force commander called “the best-rounded and uniquely trained operators on the planet”. The first paragraph of the CCT story was written 65-years ago for one of the final acts of WWII. The story continues today in the GWOT where Combat Controllers are writing history in huge chunks. Review official US Air Force CCT information video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rptKhFm9ll0.

CCT @ The Eye of the Storm is a book of military history. It traces the painful birth of Air Force Combat Control Teams, recounts their troubled childhood and tracks their extraordinary maturation through 65 years of humanitarian operations, combat training and real-world missions. The EOS was published in association with O'More (College) Publishing, Franklin, Tennessee; Ms. Jessa Sexton, Supervising Editor. The cover was designed by Ms. Amy Davidson, O'More College of Design; it features Combat Controllers from the 21st Special Tactics Squadron, Pope AFB, North Carolina. The 8.5” x 11” hardback book (ISBN 978-0-9822618-3-5) contains more than 450 pages, with scores of images. Price is a donation of $59.00. Proceeds from book donations will fund future projects at the CMSgt Alcide S. Benini Heritage Center (BHC), located at the Combat Control School, 1 Matero Drive, Pope AFB, North Carolina 28308. Prepublication sales of the EOS exceeded 500 books. Ordering information is found at: http://www.combatcontrolteam.embarqspace.com/ .

--END--

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For additional information contact CMSgt Gene Adcock,

USAF Retired, Vice President, CCSHF, phone (352) 391-1269.

WHAT IS THE CCSHF?
The Combat Control School Historical Foundation (CCSHF) is an all-volunteer force dedicated to the preservation of CCT heritage. It operates under the authority granted by the Commander of the Airlift Wing at Pope AFB, NC. It is a tax exempt organization in accordance with the Internal Revenue Service tax code, section 501 (c) (3). The Association is directly aligned with the Combat Control School and is responsible for developing, exhibiting and maintaining equipment and other artifacts accessioned by The CMSgt Alcide S. Benini Heritage Center (BHC). The BHC mission is to bolster CCT morale; while supporting United States Air Force recruiting efforts and retention goals.

– EOS SUPPLEMENT FOLLOWS –

CCT @ The Eye of the Storm (EOS) chronicles the 65-year history of Air Force Combat Control Teams (CCT). It begins with CCT's introduction in 1944 and documents many of their now declassified operations from WWII through today's Global War on Terrorism (GWOT).

March 24, 1945 - Operation Varsity - Near the end of 1944, the U.S. Army Air Force (USAAF) developed glider-borne teams; calling them Combat Control Teams. Unlike earlier U.S. Army Pathfinders, the new Combat Control Teams were provisioned with visual markers; ground-to-air and point-to-point radios; and electronic navigational aids (NAVAIDS), e.g., the Eureka radar homing beacon. Additionally, the newly commissioned Air Force teams were charged with the responsibility of airhead air traffic control (AATC). AATC required these new combat teams to coordinate both: 1. terminal guidance – for aircraft arriving at an assault zone and 2. air traffic control – of aircraft transiting the airhead. In later years, AATC added new responsibilities for coordinating the high-altitude firing – by allied artillery batteries and issuing intelligence advisories – about enemy positions in the vicinity of the airhead.

The USAAF Combat Control Teams' first test would come during Operation Varsity on March 24, 1945. On that day, eight Air Force teams were infiltrated across the Rhine, ahead of the XVIII Airborne Corps in the first airborne assault on Nazi Germany. USAAF aircraft subsequently delivered airborne and glider-borne troops near the town of Wesel, in western Germany. According to Wikipedia, Operation Varsity delivered more than 16,000 paratroopers, employed several thousand aircraft and was the largest single airborne operation in history to be conducted on a single day and in one location.

Colonel Charles H. Young
“Into the Valley”

The Untold Story of USAAF Troop Carrier in WWII

PrintComm, Inc., Dallas, TX, 1995. ISBN 0-9647978-0-1.

2009 – The Global War on Terrorism – In the 21st Century fight, USAF Combat Control Teams operate at the bloody tip of the Special Operations Command's golden spear. And, in the words of the Delta Force commander at Tora Bora, Afghanistan in December 2001, they are practically indispensable.

“...if you asked what tool of the trade would be the very last thing they would leave behind, you might be surprised at the answer. You would likely hear that it is not a tool that makes one nervous when it isn't there, but rather a capability thatis not organic to a troop of Delta operators or Navy SEALs.
Just because you are the best of the best does not mean you are the best at everything. Any Delta operator can vouch for the capabilities of the Air Force Combat Controllers, and very rarely goes on a "hit" without the men who wear the scarlet berets.

Arguably they are the best-rounded and uniquely trained operators on the planet. The initial training "pipeline" for an Air Force Special Tactics Squadron Combat Controller costs twice as much time and sweat as does the journey to become a Navy SEAL or Delta operator. Before their training is complete someone brainwashes these guys into thinking they can climb like Spiderman, swim like Tarzan, and fly like Superman --- and then they have to prove they can do so if they plan to graduate. And that is just to get to a place where they can do the job for which they are really trained, calling in those deadly air strikes.

The life of a combat controller is split between working with Delta and SEALs, with a little moonlighting with the 75th Ranger Regiment now and again.

They carry the motto that would be hard to look another operator in the face and say --- if it weren't true --- 'First There.'”

Dalton Fury, Delta Force Ground Commander
"Bomb Like There Is No Tomorrow" Kill Bin Laden
St. Martin's Press, New York, 2008. ISBN 978-0-312-38439-5.

2009 – The Forward* - “I once asked the selection psychiatrist what he looked for in Air Force candidates to this highly-specialized career field. He said 'A bit of a used car salesman. They come in as outsiders and they must be better physically, professionally, and socially.' Today, you would be hard pressed to find any sister service team that wants to go into combat without their Air Force brethren.

Ironically, hardships and adversities have drawn this special fraternity closer. Excessive tasking and long periods of family separation still force the decision: 'It is either my family or my profession.' That choice is clearly understandable. I can’t help but recall Thomas Wolfe’s book, The Right Stuff.” He said:

“In the 50s it was difficult for civilians to comprehend such a thing, but military officers and enlisted men tended to feel superior to civilians. It was really quite ironic given the fact that for a good thirty years the rising business class in cities has been steering their sons away from the military, as if from a bad smell. The (officer and enlisted) corps had never been held in lower esteem. Well, their contempt was returned in trumps. They looked upon themselves as men who lived by higher standards of behavior than civilians, as men who were bearers and protectors -- of the most important values of American life, who maintained a sense of discipline while civilians abandoned themselves to hedonism, who maintained a sense of honor while civilians lived by opportunism and greed. When the showdowns come – and the showdowns always come – not all the wealth in the world or all the sophisticated weapons and radar and missile systems it could buy would take the place of those who had the uncritical willingness to face danger, those who in short had the RIGHT STUFF.”

My prayer is that The Eye of the Storm will wake up America to a special brotherhood within. The combat controllers are a fraternity which has written, and continues to write, truly unique and heroic chapters in American military history.

*Excerpt from EOS Forward by
Bob Patterson, Major General, USAF, Retired
1st Commander of the USAF Special Operations Command
CCA Honorary Life Member #5

2009 – The Epilogue* - “Why my interest? A number of years before I became the Secretary, during a visit to Israel, I had had a lengthy discussion with a retired Israeli Air Force general who set up a small 'think tank' which he named 'Longbow.' His thesis was that, like the British at Agincourt, we would be well advised to devote R&D funds to make the individual ground troop (of any variety) as militarily powerful as possible in combat. He would need sensors and weapons and other systems to exploit the remarkable brain that a free man could bring to the fight. Then, the duty of commanders was to devise integrating technologies and systems which permitted these superbly equipped and trained fighting men to operate in concert as a highly integrated team. His belief was that such fighting teams would be incredibly effective in combat.

'At Agincourt many centuries ago, noblemen and peasants alike witnessed the might of a small group of men who brought death and destruction from above against enemy foot soldiers and armored knights. These dedicated and well-trained men with their Longbows were the key to Henry V’s defeat of the French that day, even though he was greatly outnumbered. Air Force Special Tactics Combat Controllers are today’s Longbow fighters. Individually, they are specially selected, specially trained, and, in support of special operations, almost daily bring American airpower to bear on our nation’s enemies. Indeed, they are very remarkable warriors, and this book will help many understand why so many of us hold our Combat Controllers in such incredibly high regard.'

I was convinced that he was right, and once I understood the remarkable talent residing in Special Tactics Combat Control Teams, I recognized that there were such teams in our Air Force. The question, then, was how to make them even better. I did my best to bring my belief to anyone in the leadership of the U.S. Air Force who would listen, and in Generals John Jumper and Paul Hester I found kindred spirits. My determination that airmen like (CCT MSgt) Alan Yoshida should have the very best in technology to match their superlative training and culture drove me, as did my heart-wrenching duty to join John Jumper in presenting two Air Force Crosses to the widows of a Special Tactics Combat Controller and a Pararescueman.”

*Excerpt from EOS Epilogue by
The Honorable James G. Roche
20th Secretary of the U.S. Air Force
CCA Honorary Life Member #4

– END –