461st Air Control Wing

Today marks 23 years since the horrific attacks of September 11, 2001. Let us never forget those who perished, and let us work to ensure we honor their memory as we face the challenges ahead of us.

#9/11

Recently, we gathered to celebrate the distinguished career of MSgt Lloyd Moore, a devoted member of the 461 ACNS.

MSgt Lloyd Moore has been instrumental in safeguarding our nation. His leadership, dedication, and steadfast commitment have left a profound impact on both our military and our country.

The 461st extends its heartfelt gratitude for his service. Thank you for all that you've accomplished. We wish you nothing but the best in your well-earned retirement!

🎉 Congratulations to our new Staff Sergeant selects! 🎉

This week members of at Robins Air Force Base celebrated the incredible achievements of those Airmen selected for promotion to Staff Sergeant. We are especially proud of the who were selected:

ARNALL, GARRETT 728 BMCS
BISHOP, REECE 461 OSS
CARLOCK, DYLAN 728 BMCS
COMBS, JARED 330 CTS
CONLEY, BRANDON 461 ACNS
DOUCET, JONATHON 330 CTS
FAULK, JAELAN 728 BMCS
FOSTER, COLTON 728 BMCS
GOSS, CONNOR 330 CTS
GRIMM, KYLE 12 ACCS
KANE, ALEXANDRIA 461 ACW
LAPPIN, KYLE 53 CAOS
LEE, LLOYD 728 BMCS
MARTINEZ, CAZARES 330 CTS
PINDER, SUMMER 461 ACNS
SEARCY, JEFFREY 53 CAOS
SOUTHERN, DYLAN 728 BMCS
TANAKA, BLITCH 461 ACNS
TAYLOR, GABRIEL 461 ACNS
TUCKER, TREY 728 BMCS
WADE, JORDAN 728 BMCS
WASHINGTON, MARKESE 461 ACNS
WICKER, CHARLES 53 CAOS
WYATT, JACOB 728 BMCS

Their hard work, dedication, and perseverance have truly paid off, and we couldn’t be prouder! They will now join the NCO Corps, serving as frontline leaders and the backbone of the USAF.

The event was a fantastic day filled with pride and celebration as we recognized their outstanding accomplishments and welcomed them into their new leadership roles.

Here’s to your continued success and leadership—cheers to a bright future ahead!



Photo Credits Patrick Sullivan 78 ABW/PA

Thank you to CSAF General David Allvin for visiting Robins Air Force Base this week and meeting with members of including .

Thank you as well to the many members of who put in work behind the scenes to make the visit possible.

🐊 Hell Yeah, Get Some! 🐊

Recently, the Houston County Commissioners honored SMSgt Schyler Peck of the 53rd Combat Airfield Operations Squadron (CAOS) for his 19 years of service. A native of West Virginia, SMSgt Peck was inspired to join by his grandparents’ service during World War II.

SMSgt Peck spoke to the Fighting Gator's unique capability to establish airfields in contested & austere environments; highlighting the importance of the 53 CAOS to the Air Force and DOD as a whole.

Robins Air Force Base Air Combat Command

Commissioners learn about the 53rd CAOS, Chairman announces special called meeting – Houston Home Journal The Houston County Commissioners heard from a member of the 53rd CAOS and Chairman Perdue announced a special called meeting.

✈️ Throwback Thursday ✈️

On August 15, 1944, during Operation DRAGOON, the 461st Bombardment Group played a crucial role in the invasion of Southern France. Led by Colonel Glantzberg, they executed precision bombing on enemy defenses while also dropping propaganda leaflets. In a demonstration of excellent leadership, all of the Group and Squadron level Operations Officers, Navigators, and Bombardiers flew in the mission. Ideal weather conditions and strategic planning ensured their mission's success, marking a pivotal moment in WWII history. See below for the mission's bombing photo.

Liberaiders In The News!
https://www.robins.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3857735/robins-461st-acns-national-defense-cyber-power-players/

The 461st Air Control Network Squadron at Robins Air Force Base is crucial in maintaining the Air Force's technological advantages. Transitioning from supporting the E-8C JSTARS mission to aiding the 728th Battle Management Control Squadron, the squadron's new mission involves real-time radar surveillance and tactical reconnaissance. This transformation involves expanding personnel and training for new cyber capabilities, ensuring robust support for American assets worldwide.

Read more about their pivotal mission and the Airmen making it happen at the link above.

Robins Air Force Base

🎳 DEMON DAY 🎳

This past Friday the 728th Battle Management Control Squadron, also known as the Demons held a “Demon-Day” bowling morale event. With players like former semi-professional bowler 2d Lt Tyler Johnson the Demons bowled-out, enjoying a well-earned break.

✈️ All American Heroes!✈️

80 years ago today, July 25 1944, the crew of the B-24 "All American" of the 461st Bombardment Group shot down 14 enemy planes on a mission over Austria. To this day, this sortie by The All American remains the highest single sortie kill count in American History.

Led by 1st Lt Robert E. Arbuthnot the plane was virtually undamaged despite heavy enemy attacks. Sgt Robert L Molyneux and TSgt Hugh G. Baker were each credited with 3 kills. Sgt Warren E Moss, SSgt Elza S Massie, TSgt Eric C English, and SSgt Roy M Walkama were all credited two kills apiece.

The incredible skill, persistence, and courage of this crew is emblematic of the character which was a hallmark of "the greatest generation". We encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the achievement of these men, many in their late teens and early twenties, and all that they sacrificed for our nation.

🇺🇸Liberaiders AIM-ing High🇺🇸

Aviation Inspiration Mentorship (AIM) volunteers from the 728th Battle Management Control Squadron and the 461st Operations Support Squadron have been hard at work *Informing, Influencing, and Inspiring* the next generation of diverse aviators and leaders for our Air Force. Their goal is to restore the luster of aviation in our youth within ALL communities across our country. They have participated in multiple community engagement events across Middle Georgia to include a Macon Bacon baseball game and providing support for the Little League Southeastern Region Softball/Baseball tournaments.

Additionally, the Liberaider AIM Wing Program Director, Maj Aurea “Silo” Pomales Martínez, partnered with the AFRS Detachment 1 to support the week-long OBAP - Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals - Aerospace Career Education Academy in San Juan, Puerto Rico. During this time, Maj Pomales Martínez engaged with, and mentored, 15 OBAP-ACE Academy participants ranging from ages 13-17 years old on the different pathways to wings that exist within the United States Air Force. She arranged a visit to the University of Puerto Rico – Río Piedras Campus Afrotc Det 755, showing the participants the facilities and establishing ties even beyond the local community.

AL ATAQUE!

Thank you to everyone who participated in the The Refuge (RAFB) and Robins Regional Chamber sponsored BBQ dinner at The Refuge! It was a fantastic turnout with over 100 attendees, including E-1 to E-4 personnel and their families. Events like these are huge morale boosters for the Airmen of .
Thank you as well to 21st Century Partnership for supporting the event.

Robins Air Force Base

✈️ Throwback Thursday! ✈️

Today, we're revisiting a pivotal moment from our unit's history during World War II. 80 years ago this week, on July 15, 1944, the courageous men of the 461st Bombardment Group embarked on a daring mission to target an enemy oil refinery in Romania.

In the days leading up to the raid hand picked crews flew practice missions against mock targets. Despite facing adverse weather conditions and heavy enemy resistance, their unwavering courage and skill prevailed. Their successful operation not only dealt a significant blow to Axis oil production but also earned them well-deserved recognition; Two Liberaiders on the raid received Distinguished Flying Crosses, and the unit received its second War Department Unit Citation.

As we continue to forge the future of service to the nation, let us never forget to honor past Liberaiders' extraordinary dedication and sacrifices that shaped our legacy.

USMC 🤝 USAF

Last week the 461 ACW was proud to host Marines of Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) for a visit to the Wing.

Colonel Kurt Gall, Commander of Marine Air Control Group 28 (MACG-28) was present at the visit along with 461 ACW CC Col Adam Shelton, 461 OG CC Col Michael Lynch, and 116 OG CC Col Elmer McDaniel.

During their visit, Marines of MAWTS-1 briefed members of the 461st on their Squadron's history, structure, and mission. Their brief gave invaluable insight to the Airmen in attendance into how those in the USMC train for the air war and how that training fits into the larger Marine Corps structure.

Visits like these foster exchanges of ideas and expertise which are vitally important. They allow us to continue to improve the Joint Force as we reoptimize for Great Power Competition.

A huge thanks to the Marines for sharing their expertise with our Airmen!

Air Combat Command Robins Air Force Base

🚛 CTS On The Move 🚛

It's been over a year since the 330th Combat Training Squadron flew its last JSTARS sortie. In that time, the 330 CTS has been helping to lead the charge in the 461 ACW's transition to new mission sets; helping to train the Air Force's next generation of BMC2 experts.

Recently, the CTS moved facilities on Robins Air Force Base, ushering in a new era in the Unit's storied history. Together with their Air National Guard counterparts in the 129th Combat Training Squadron, the 330 CTS is ready to build on a proud tradition and train Airmen to provide tactical air control.

A special thanks to all the members who helped to make the move possible, including TSgt Casey Platinum and SrA Connor Goss (pictured below). Former members of will recognize the CTS's unique heritage room decoration, seems they are taking "building on tradition" quite literally.

Stay tuned for more updates on the CTS's future mission and the members making it possible.

330 CTS - Raptor Legion Air Combat Command

On behalf of all of us at the 461 ACW, we’d like to wish you a Happy Independence Day! Take the time to remember the rich history of our nation’s founding and, when you celebrate today, be sure you do so safely and responsibly.

This past Friday the 461st Operations Group conducted a change of command ceremony. As we welcome Col Michael "MULES" Lynch, we look forward to a bright future, building on a rich history that dates back to WWII. The 461 OG remains "On the Attack," ready to embrace new missions and technologies.

We’d also like to thanks Colonel Keith “Scout” McGuire for his 24 years of service and his excellent leadership of the 461 OG. Enjoy your well earned retirement, Sir. Here's to past achievements and future successes!


Air Combat Command
Robins Air Force Base

Last Friday, we celebrated the remarkable careers of three dedicated individuals of the 461 ACW. MSgt Dusty Surber, MSgt Cameron Hazen, and MSgt Michael Hehn have each made significant contributions to our nation’s defense. Their leadership, dedication, and commitment have left an indelible mark on our military and our country.

We at the 461st are profoundly grateful for their service. Thank you, gentlemen for all you have done. Wishing you all the best in your well-deserved retirements!

Check out this months events being put on by the 78th FSS!
78th Force Support Squadron, Robins AFB

80 years ago today, Allied Forces launched Operation Overlord, the invasion of Normandy. Involving forces from 12 nations and every service branch in the US Military, the operation marked the beginning of the end for N**i Germany but came at a great cost; 4,414 Allied troops were killed on D-Day alone, including 2,501 Americans.

In support of the invasion, 15th Air Force bombers operating out of Italy ramped up strikes against the Axis industrial base. At the same time troops were storming the beaches in France, from the 461st Bombardment Group launched a raid against Ploiești, Romania. Despite poor weather, the mission was a success. Over the next 10 months, the 461st would continue to strike against Axis forces in Europe, helping to bring about the Liberation of Europe and the end of the N**i Regime.

Today, eight decades after, we encourage you to take the time to reflect on the immense sacrifice required of those who, as President Roosevelt said, “set free a suffering humanity”.

Checkout this article highlighting the 'Fighting Gators' of the 53rd Combat Airfield Operations Squadron and their recent joint exercise with the ’s Marine Air Control Squadron 2 in Twentynine Palms, California! Robins Air Force Base Air Combat Command

Robins’ 53rd CAOS, USMC participate in joint airfield exercise Joint military exercises involving multiple U.S. military branches play an important role in strengthening our national security and maintaining readiness. Such was the case for the collaboration

Happy Pride Month to all.

This month, we celebrate the diversity and strength of the LGBTQ+ community.

Recognizing Excellence: Last Thursday, Team Robins gathered to honor those recently selected for promotion to Master Sergeant. We are particularly proud of the selected, TSgt Herold of the 461 ACNS and TSgt Hemer of the 461 WSA. Their exemplary service within the 461 ACW sets a high standard for all. Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement! Robins Air Force Base

✈️Taking Flight✈️

Liberaiders from the 461st Air Control Wing attended a 2-day professional development geared towards arming CGOs and NCOs leaders with the tools necessary to succeed during their tenure as Flight Commanders and Flight Chiefs.

Captain Mariah “Bandit” Anderson (Omega Flight Commander, 461st Operations Support Squadron) organized this course with the support of multiple agencies across Team Robins. The course benefited from the mentorship of current and graduated Squadron Commanders, Legal, Chaplain, First Sergeants, as well as a Chiefs/Senior Enlisted panel. As Colonel Adam W. Shelton (461st Air Control Wing Commander) stated: “Welcome to the crucible of Command”.

Today we remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our nation. Their courage and willingness to give what President Lincoln called, “the last full measure of devotion” stand as an inspiration to all Americans. Let us ensure that they are never forgotten.

This week held the 47th annual Airman's Memorial Service honoring Robins military and civilian members who have passed away. The ceremony, held at the Museum of Aviation, honored 32 members of . Their legacy and service to our nation will never be forgotten. Robins Air Force Base

Congratulations to the recent graduates of SSgt Felicia R. Rivers Airman Leadership School. Particularly the who were members of class 24-D!

The first ever Liberaider Games on May 10th were action-packed! From intense volleyball matches to thrilling flag football showdowns, and even a canoe race, every moment was filled with energy and competition. After the games, the Wing enjoyed a delicious burger burn along with axe throwing and a bouncy house. Kudos to the units for their victories: CAOS for dominating volleyball, flag football, and co****le, ACNS for their stellar performance in basketball, OSS for ruling kickball, and BMCS for their impressive wins in canoeing, Esports, and the relay race, securing the top spot! 🥇Hats off to all squadrons for bringing their A-game!
Robins Air Force Base Air Combat Command

Photo Credits 📸 SrA Anna Hill USAF