910th Communication Flight becomes a squadron

Published Jan. 7, 2012
By Tech. Sgt. Dennis J. Kilker Jr.
910th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- Air Force Reserve Lt. Col. Pete Milkovich took the helm as the first commander of the 910th Communications Squadron in a ceremony held at the communications building here, Jan. 7, 2012.

910th Airlift Wing Commander Col. Reinhard Schmidt, 910th Mission Support Group Commander Col. Teresa Hams and 910th Airlift Wing Command Chief Master Sergeant Troy Rhoades were also in attendance to witness the transition from the 910th Communications Flight to the 910th Communications Squadron.

For Milkovich, as with most of the Air Force communications squadrons, the spotlight will be shining on cyber operations.

"With the increased focus on cyber operations, we've experienced an increase in staff to help shoulder the workload," said Milkovich. "We have already been functioning at a squadron level, so the change from flight to squadron is kind of a formality."

The increased threat of cyber attacks from hostile groups has already created a heightened sense of security. This has resulted in more work for Communications Squadrons throughout the Air Force. A sentiment recently echoed by Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, who stated cyber war is one of his biggest worries.

With the increased threat of attacks on the Air Force network, Milkovich emphasized the need for diligent defense of the Air Force network.
"(The network) is a weapons system and without it, our Air Force mission capabilities would be seriously degraded," he said.

Milkovich stated a great road lies ahead and that he is grateful for the dedication and service continually exhibited by his Airmen. "Remember, this comm train does not stop. It is in perpetual motion. You're either on board, or you're trying to get on board," said Milkovich.