Photo By Tech. Sgt. Shelton Sherrill | Radio Frequency Transmissions technicians assigned to the 36th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron strengthened the flow of critical information between aircrews, medical teams, and command centers through hands-on antenna and satellite communications training, March 7 at Keesler Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Shelton Sherrill) see less
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KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, MISSISSIPPI, UNITED STATES
Behind every successful aeromedical evacuation mission is a network of Airmen ensuring critical information flows seamlessly between aircrews, medical teams, and command centers.
Radio Frequency Transmissions technicians assigned to the 36th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron strengthened that lifeline through hands-on antenna and satellite communications training, March 7 at Keesler Air Force Base.
The training focused on the deployment and operation of a 9-meter Harris telescoping antenna mast and the Starshield Mini satellite communication system, which are two essential tools for maintaining secure, reliable communications in austere and remote environments.
Senior Master Sgt. Sonny Parker, 36th AES cyber operations superintendent, emphasized the importance of RF technicians to the mission.
“Within the 36th AES, our RF Transmissions technicians play a critical role in supporting the aeromedical evacuation mission,” Parker said. “They ensure reliable, secure, and effective communications throughout all phases of patient movement, which is essential to saving lives and maintaining mission success.”
The antenna mast training provided Airmen with step-by-step instruction on proper assembly, safe deployment, and disassembly procedures, reinforcing both safety and operational standards. Simultaneously, the Starshield Mini system offered hands-on experience with advanced satellite communications, enabling high-speed connectivity in environments where traditional infrastructure is unavailable.
For many Airmen, the training marked a return to foundational skills.
“The training was extremely helpful for the members involved,” said Tech. Sgt. Arluster Burks, 36th AES cyber operations technician and the course instructor. “Many of our Airmen are new to the unit and hadn’t worked with this equipment since technical school. The hands-on setup of the antenna mast and deployment of the Starshield Mini gave them valuable, practical experience and boosted their confidence in establishing reliable communications in the field.”
Burks noted that the training directly supports both Aeromedical Evacuation and En Route Patient Staging System missions by ensuring teams can maintain critical communication links regardless of location. RF Transmissions technicians undergo extensive preparation before arriving at operational units. After completing 28 weeks of technical training at Keesler Air Force Base, where they learn RF theory, system installation, operations, and maintenance across multiple communication platforms, Airmen continue developing their expertise through on-the-job training and field exercises.
Their responsibilities extend far beyond equipment setup.
“RF technicians are essential to the success of the AE mission,” Burks said. “Our expertise ensures medical crews can coordinate effectively with command and support elements, respond to changing mission requirements, and maintain situational awareness throughout operations.”
The role also offers a unique blend of technical challenge and personal impact.
“I would absolutely recommend this career field to others,” Burks added. “It’s diverse, it’s challenging, and it’s incredibly rewarding. Knowing that the work we do directly supports the safe evacuation, treatment, and transport of patients—sometimes in life-or-death situations—is the greatest reward.”
As the 36th AES continues to train and adapt, RF technicians remain a vital force behind the scenes which ensures that no matter what the environment, the mission stays connected and patients receive the care they need when it matters most.
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