280th Combat Communications Squadron

The 280th Special Operations Communication Squadron (280th SOCS) is a geographically separated unit (GSU) of the Alabama Air National Guard, located at Dothan Regional Airport, Dothan, Alabama. The mission of the 280th SOCS is “To provide communications and information systems for command and control of Special Operations Forces worldwide, as well as respond to state emergencies as directed by the governor” [of Alabama]. The 280th SOCS provides tactical communication services to state, military and federal agencies utilizing state of the art information systems. Over 44% of Air Force Special Operations Command’s (AFSOC) deployed communication capabilities are provided by the 280th.[3][4]

280th Special Operations Communications Squadron
280th Combat Communications Squadron Insignia
Active1959 – present
CountryUnited States
BranchUnited States Air Force
TypeSpecial Operations Communications
RoleSpecial Operations Combat Support[1]
Part ofAFSOC / ANG / 226th Combat Communications Group
Garrison/HQDothan Regional Airport, Alabama[2]
Nickname(s)"The Warriors Voice"
Motto(s)"Vox Bellatorum" (current)
"Communications for Peace" (old)
Engagements"Operation Allied Force"

"Operation Enduring Freedom"

"Operation Iraqi Freedom"

"Operation New Dawn"

"Resolute Support Mission"
Decorations AFOUA
AFOEA
Commanders
Current
commander		Lt Col Gary J. Osland

History

In January 1959, the 280th SOCS was federally recognized as the 280th Communications Squadron (Special). The first members enlisted in the squadron in March 1959.

During 1967, members of the 280th Communications Squadron (Special) were selected for training in response to then-President Johnson's directive to use Army and Air Guard units to maintain domestic order. Those members were appointed to Team 3 of Task Force Foxtrot, which was responsible for riot control.

October 1982, the unit was re-designated as the 280th Combat Communications Squadron.[5]

The squadron moved from Maxwell Air force Base to Abston Air National Guard Station in October 1986, followed by a relocation to Hall Air National Guard Station in April 1996.

In February 1999, the 280th was formally integrated into the mission of the Air Force Special Operations Command. In August 2004, the unit moved to its current location at the Dothan Regional Airport Air National Guard Station. In January 2014, the squadron was re-designated as the 280th Special Operations Communications Squadron.[5]

Emblem Description and Significance

On a blue disc. Issuing from lower left a yellow hemisphere grid lined black and a yellow satellite in lower left emitting two red dash lines to the sphere; above the sphere and satellite a gray eagle with wings displayed throughout detailed black olive branches with white berries in his left claw; all within a narrow yellow border.

Blue and yellow are the Air Force colors. Blue alludes to the sky, the primary theater of Air Force operations. Yellow refers to the sun and the excellence required of Air Force personnel. The globe represents the worldwide scope of mobility. The eagle symbolizes strength and keenness of vision. The lightning flashes and olive branches refer to the unit’s motto, COMMUNICATIONS FOR PEACE. The satellite reflects the high technology required of the unit in order to perform its mission.[6]

Assignments

Major Command/Gaining Command

Wing/Group

Previous designations
  • 280th Special Operations Communications Squadron (Jan 2014 – present)
  • 280th Combat Communications Squadron (Oct 1982–Jan 2014)
  • 280th Communications Squadron (Special) (Jan 1959-Oct 1982)

Bases stationed

Decorations
  • 280th CBCS Members at Kadena AB
  • 280th CBCS verify antenna installation at Kadena AB
  • 280th CBCS members working on a Joint Base Station setup

References
  1. Stars and Stripes: "Transport to rescue, Air Force special operations forces do the job", 12 Oct 2001
  2. Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs: "Total force, total commitment, total special operators", 7 Nov 2002
  3. Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs: "School children send patriotic support to 'home team'", 11 Sep 2002
  4. Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs: "353rd SOG Airmen train Guard counterparts", 22 Aug 2008 Archived 15 September 2008 at the Wayback Machine
  5. 280th CBCS: "280th CBCS 50th Anniversary Site" Archived 28 January 2011 at the Wayback Machine
  6. AF FOIA Request
  7. Green, Master Sgt. Randy O. (2 July 2007). "Alabama ANG shows how they're a Total Force Team". Air Force Network Integration Center.
  8. Order number GB-423, 1971
  9. Order number GB-595, 1973
  10. Order number GA-061, 1990
  11. Order number GA-074, 1991
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