Maintainers, cops create cross communication opportunity

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Braydon Williams
  • 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs

A missile maintenance squadron and a missile security forces squadron came together to give the cops an opportunity to go into a missile launch facility, Dec. 28, 2017, to see what they are protecting every day.

The 90th MMXS invited the 90th MSFS out to the launch facility to enhance communication and mutual appreciation between the two squadrons.

"Accomplishing the ICBM mission requires extensive coordination between operators, maintainers, security forces and support personnel,” said Maj. Gen. Anthony Cotton, 20th Air Force commander. “Consequently, developing relationships across functional areas at every level of our organization is crucial. Opportunities like this one help Airmen comprehend the complexity of our mission set, which in turn inspires pride in our business and an appreciation for the unique contribution of every member of our team."

Many defenders spend a large part of their enlistment protecting these launch facilities and never get the chance to see what is under their feet.

“It’s an awesome opportunity to get the chance to go underground and see exactly what we protect each day,” said Staff Sgt. John Brandenburg, 90th MSFS flight security controller. “I’ve been here for five years and haven’t been downstairs. This is a great experience, not just to see down there, but also to understand what the maintenance teams do.”

Cross communication impacts everyone in the Air Force from Airman 1st Class to General. It helps build strong connections and working relationships between squadrons and groups.

“It’s a good opportunity for both maintenance and security forces personnel to work together and understand each other’s job, while building a stronger working relationship between the two career fields,” said Chief Master Sgt. Scott Johnson, 90th MMXS superintendent.