New unit joins cyberwarfare

The 691st Cyberspace Operations Squadron was officially activated during a ceremony April 21 on Ramstein.

Lt. Col. Michael Medgyessy assumed command of the unit from Col. Heather Blackwell, 690th Cyberspace Operations Group commander, who officiated the ceremony.

“I am proud of every one of you,” Blackwell said. “We took two different detachments, two varying cultures and put you together. And during the transition, you all have performed absolutely phenomenally.”

The units combined during the ceremony include the 83rd Network Operations Squadron detachment 4 and the 690th Network Support Squadron detachment 1. Before being relinquished from their respective commander however, a final salute was presented to honor their time as a detachment before joining under the 691st COS guidon.

Due to the cyberspace environment constantly evolving, the 691st COS team have the intent to strengthen the new unit by maturing its capabilities and grow the Cyber Security and Control System weapon system and the operational capabilities of the unit.

“This was a long awaited, special day in history,” Medgyessy said. “Most of us have been anticipating and planning for this big day for some time now. Ceremonies like this are rare. We are witnessing the birth of a new unit, and this journey we are on is boldly going where no one has gone before.”

Though the future of cyberwarfare is constantly changing, the newly 691st COS Airmen will adapt and stand ready with sharp minds and keen skills to continue protecting the cyberdomain.