ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Air Force Reserve Command officials are looking for Security Forces personnel interested in serving on special teams trained to protect aircraft and aircrews in areas where there is limited or unreliable levels of security.
“AFRC formalized its Phoenix Raven program in October of 2019,” said Chief Master Sgt. Michael Caldwell, AFRC Security Forces manager. “We’ve had individual Ravens for many years, but this is the first time we have had a fully functional program with Raven unit type codes.”
Caldwell said AFRC developed its program in conjunction with Air Mobility Command and currently has 42 new Raven positions spread across five bases.
“These five hubs were strategically placed at key locations throughout the United States, geographically close to air bases with strategic airlift capabilities,” Caldwell said.
“The Phoenix Raven program is critical because it provides AFRC with the organic capability to secure our aircraft in some of the most vulnerable and unpredictable locations across the globe.”
Raven teams help detect, deter and counter threats to aircraft by performing close-in aircraft security; advising aircrews on force protection measures; conducting airfield assessments; and assisting aircrews in the performance of their duties when not performing their primary security duties.
“In addition to supporting missions at home station, AFRC Ravens are staged globally to support combatant commands and various crisis and contingency operations,” Caldwell said.
Prospective Ravens must complete 28 days of training at the Air Force Expeditionary Center at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey. Subjects covered include cross-cultural awareness, aircraft searches, airfield surveys, de-escalation techniques, weapons proficiency and flight-deck denial.
“Once they complete the training and certification, members are awarded the special experience identifier, an official Raven number and authorization to wear the coveted Raven tab on their uniform,” Caldwell said.
AFRC Raven UTC grade authorizations are staff sergeant through master sergeant, and are located only at identified hub locations. Individuals interested in becoming a Raven should work with their chain of command and HQ AFRC/A4S. For more career broadening and developmental opportunities, contact Caldwell at michael.caldwell.4@us.af.mil. #ReserveReady #ReserveReform