ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. — Communication is what the 5th MOB at Robins Air Force Base does best.
"It's all about getting that equipment up," Commander Colonel Dave Abel said. "We're typically first boots on the ground anywhere we go and the last to leave because our mission supports every other mission going on."
The group sets up communication capabilities all over the globe to connect military troops, allies, and even the President.
"We were involved in Vietnam, Operation Eagle Claw, Desert Storm, the Global War on Terror, and most recently, we've been operating in Europe and the Pacific deterring Russia and Chinese aggression."
The group boasts an impressive resume spanning 60 years. The technology has certainly changed during that time, from colossal machines to compact computer systems.
"Pretty much anything you see that is cutting edge, we're getting involved in. Drones, we've used robot dogs. We are always exploring new ways to get lighter and faster at our mission," Col. Abel said.
The equipment might change, but the connection between generations of "mobsters" remains the same.
"Hearing their stories and places they've been has really just opened my eyes," Lieutenant Chip Maurer said.
Lt. Maurer is new to the MOB, but he is helping plan a big anniversary celebration in June for all those who came before him.
"The atmosphere that is built within the MOB is all because of the mobsters who were here before myself, before everyone who is currently in the MOB. So we just want to pay tribute, bring them back in, and have some fun."
The 60th anniversary celebration runs from June 27-29 and will include a golf tournament, social, celebration dinner, and the unveiling of the new Heritage Hall complete with photos of former MOB members and equipment used in the group's early days.
Any former 5th MOB members interested in joining the celebration can email 5thMOB60@gmail.com to RSVP.