3rd Combat Communications Group

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 3rd Combat Communications Group

The 3rd Combat Communications Group (3rd CCG), nicknamed the "Third Herd," was activated in 1957 and has played a vital role in providing tactical communications and airfield support for the United States Air Force. Headquartered at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, the unit has deployed globally in support of operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and humanitarian missions. The 3rd CCG specialized in rapidly deploying, installing, and operating communication systems vital for command and control in austere environments. The group was inactivated in 2013 as part of Air Force restructuring, but its legacy of excellence and readiness continues to influence combat communications doctrine.

Unit Members

Joseph Fuller

U.S. Air Force

3rd Combat Communications GroupView Profile

James Staton

U.S. Air Force

3rd Combat Communications GroupView Profile

Photos

Murphy's Last Yellow Alert

6595 • U.S. Air Force

Anniversary of Shepard's Flight From Cape Canaveral

6555th ASTG • U.S. Air Force

USAF Recruiting Photo

6595 • U.S. Air Force • 1981

U.S. Air Force • 1981

About 3rd Combat Communications Group

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in World War II: The 3rd Combat Communications Group (3rd CCG) traces its lineage back to the 3rd Airways and Air Communications Service Squadron, activated in 1957, with roots in World War II-era communications units. • Nickname "Third Herd": The unit is affectionately known as the "Third Herd," a nickname that has fostered camaraderie and esprit de corps among its members for decades. • Rapid Deployment Capability: The 3rd CCG specialized in deploying worldwide on short notice, providing critical communications infrastructure for command and control in austere environments. • Operation Desert Storm: The group played a crucial role during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm (1990-1991), rapidly establishing communications networks for coalition forces in Southwest Asia. • Hurricane Katrina Response: In 2005, the 3rd CCG was vital in restoring communications for first responders and military units in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina along the Gulf Coast. • Global War on Terrorism: Members of the 3rd CCG deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq, supporting air and ground operations by setting up secure communications in forward areas. • Unique Mascot: The group’s mascot, the "Blue Bull," symbolizes strength, resilience, and the “can-do” spirit of the unit. • Home at Tinker AFB: The 3rd CCG was based at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma for most of its history, becoming a fixture in the local community. • Inactivation in 2013: After over 50 years of service, the 3rd CCG was officially inactivated in May 2013 as part of Air Force restructuring and cost-saving measures. • Legacy of Innovation: The 3rd CCG pioneered mobile communications technology and tactics, leaving a lasting legacy on how the Air Force rapidly establishes command and control in deployed environments.