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CAMP TURZII, Romania —The 1st Communications Maintenance Squadron completed the final site survey for the installation of a Tactical Air Navigation System at Camp Turzii, Romania, Sept. 14 to 18.
During the five day process, a two-man special communications team looked at the site to ensure all the correct materials were ordered and all support completed before they put the entire installation team on the ground next summer.
The special communications teams also includes having to go throughout U.S. Air Forces in Europe and making sure correct procedures are being followed and the equipment is being maintained, said Tech. Sgt. Aaron Tibbits, 1st CMXS special communications team member.
“Being in this special duty has truly been the reason why I have stayed in so long,” said Master Sgt. Jerry McDonald, 1st CMXS special communications team member. “I have a sense of accomplishment knowing that I can pass on all the information I have gained to others that come after me. I’ve had a long career of knowledge, and I am very grateful for what I do.”
Sergeant McDonald said it was important to make sure everything was good to go because many of the materials used were from the United States.
“If we didn’t do the site survey, it could possibly delay the installation process,” he said.
Though it will be several months before they install the TACAN, it will be well worth the wait. Not only will it provide better communication capabilities between the air and ground forces in the area, but it will also help strengthen the bonds between the United States and the host nation.
“I think having the Romanians see us here and work together will definitely help build a better bond,” Sergeant Tibbits said. “U.S. forces will be back here to maintain this site, so the Romanians will continue to see us, as we make sure that everything is functioning okay with the TACAN.”
And working with the Romanians on this project has had a positive impact not only on the American side.
“I enjoy working with the Americans,” said Romanian 2nd Lt. Adrian Diosan, engineer platoon leader. “While I have a very busy job, I always like to take the opportunity to collaborate with the Americans when possible.”
But it’s not just the benefits that the maintenance and engineers receive – the whole purpose of the TACAN being in Romania is a benefit for the military forces training in the region.
“There is a lot of training that takes place out here,” Sergeant Tibbits added. “It will simulate more of a tactical and combat environment. This is what they are using in Iraq, so while they are out here training, they will be able to see what it will be like downrange.”
The job of the special communications team is a difficult one because not only are they gone a lot of the year, they also have a lot of responsibility on their shoulders.
“We repair and maintain navigation, radio and air traffic control equipment,”
Sergeant Tibbits said. “It is our job to make sure the equipment throughout USAFE is properly maintained. If we do not do our job correctly, there would be no planes in the sky, or worse case scenario, planes could be landing in the wrong spots or the middle of fields. That is why it is so vital we do our job correctly.”
They are also vital because they are in high demand as one of very few teams that can perform these functions in Europe. The job itself is a special- duty assignment, where only a select few end up making their way to Ramstein. The 1st CMXS is part of the 435th Air and Space Communications Group, one of three groups assigned to the new 435th Air Ground Operations Wing headquartered at Ramstein.
To see photos of the team’s trip to Romania, visit www.ramstein.af.mil.
