Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

65 years ago, one of the most daring—and for a long time, most secret—missions in U.S. Air Force Combat Control history was unfolding in the rugged peaks of the Himalayas.

Operation Road Grader (Dec 10–18, 1960) While most of the world was focused on the Cold War in Europe, four elite USAF Combat Controllers--Capt Buck Evans, MSgt Alcide Benini, TSgt Charlie Drew, and SSgt William A. Fitzgerald--were jumping into a "rock pile" drop zone near the Indus River in Chilās, Pakistan. Their mission was to coordinate the massive airdrop of 600 tons of cement and 64 tons of heavy machinery (including the road graders that gave the mission its name).

The Twist was Total Secrecy: The team was briefed that the mission was tasked directly by the State Department.

The "Grey" Area: The U.S. was helping Pakistan build a strategic road/runway in territory bitterly disputed by India. To keep things quiet, the team jumped with "survival" shotguns and no official military ID.

The Drop Zone: There were no maps or photos. The team didn't see the landing site until they were 100 feet above the rocks.

This mission remained classified for years, only coming to light through the personal archives and declassified photos of the men who lived it.

Want to see the photos and the story of the jump into Chilas? 👉 Read it on our website under Combat Control History: www.combatcontrolfoundation.org/combat-control-his…

#MilitaryHistory #FirstThere #CombatControl #Kashmir

1 week ago | [YT] | 11

Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

LIMITED DROP: Dino Pants | Green & Black Camo | Dec 1–15 - Built by a CCT/PJ duo who know what actually works in the field. Lightweight stretch ripstop. 8 pockets.
Kneepad cutouts. Full adjustability. Real camo at distance, dinosaurs up close.
Tested on OTB ops, jungle climbs, desert heat, and daily wear.

Use code CCTF — 10% off and 10% of your purchase goes to the Combat Control Foundation.

Drop ends Dec 15.

LIMITED DROP: Dino Pants | Green & Black Camo | Dec 1–15 - Use code CCTF dinocam.store/products/dinocam-combat-pants

Skip the Carousel

1 2 3

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 11

Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

🇺🇸 In Memoriam: Remembering the CCTs we lost in previous Decembers 🇺🇸

We pause to honor and remember a distinguished group of U.S. Air Force Combat Controllers—men who were more than warriors. They were sons, brothers, fathers, and teammates who embodied the mission to be "First There."

Bound together by the sacred ties of service, dedication, and brotherhood, these men live on in our memory and in the legacy of the Combat Control community. We say their names, so they are Never Forgotten and Always Remembered.

We are forever grateful that such men have lived.

### December Fallen

* SMSgt Frank Betty (12/26/2024)
* Bill Jones (12/24/2024)
* SSgt Donald G. Peters (12/18/2024)
* Lt Col Jerry F. Whitley (12/16/2024)
* CMSgt Alan T. Yoshida (12/9/2023)
* CMSgt Robert L. Gabriel (12/1/2022)
* Maj Ronald G. Wilson (12/24/2019)
* Harper R. Wagner (12/5/2019)
* Sgt Eugene C. Harris (12/23/2018)
* TSgt Jeffrey S. Caleb (12/18/2017)
* TSgt Bernard T. Santos (12/7/2015)
* David A. Gfeller (12/7/2015)
* SSgt Eric C. Webster (12/18/2013)
* TSgt John P. Underwood (12/30/2011)
* SMSgt Clyde Howard (12/21/2011)
* MSgt Stanton E. Braxton (12/16/2011)
* MSgt Larry D. Rhinehart (12/15/2011)
* TSgt Leslie R. Evitts (12/15/2011)
* SMSgt Gerald T. Glass (12/17/2010)
* Maj James O. Cuyler (12/16/2010)
* Capt Dewitt Neal (12/31/2009)
* Juan Rodriquez (12/13/2009)
* TSgt Ronald E. Holder (12/14/2008)
* Virgil A. Mitchell (12/14/2008)
* Col Leroy V. Greene (12/14/2007)
* SSgt Bobby G. James (12/13/2007)
* Sgt Francis E. Nugent (12/13/2007)
* Danny M. Pugh (12/26/2006)
* Maj Lamar A. Eikman (12/27/2005)
* MSgt Richard L. Karmann (12/25/2005)
* Lt Col Richard G. Sigman (12/22/2005)
* CMSgt Marcus L. Baxley (12/5/2004)
* Capt Anthony F. Tino (12/30/2003)
* MSgt Guy T. Fagan (12/15/2003)
* Capt Charles D. Ballard (12/12/2001)
* SSgt Douglas L. Eccleston (12/7/2001)
* TSgt Everett E. Herron (12/17/2000)
* Robert L. Chavez (12/2/2000)
* Herbert E. Harney (12/9/1999)
* MSgt Georgeton L. Tummolo (12/8/1998)
* David C. Driscoll (12/18/1987)
* MSgt Robert M. Revland (12/16/1985)
* Eugene Montalbano (12/29/1983)
* Sgt Harold G. Foster (12/27/1978)
* MSgt Lester H. Shaw (12/3/1977)
* Maj Arlon B. Jahnke (12/15/1976)
* 1Lt Joseph F. Boyland (12/1/1975)
* SMSgt Paul L. Foster (12/29/1967)
* TSgt Paul C. Bisnett (12/28/1967)

To learn more about these men, please visit the Combat Control Team memorial site: memorial.combatcontrol.team/

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 29

Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

Jalrez, Wardak Province, Afghanistan (November 27, 2012): Technical Sergeant Douglas J. Matthews, a Combat Controller from the 125th Special Tactics Squadron, was awarded the Silver Star Medal for extraordinary gallantry. When his vehicle struck an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and triggered a complex ambush, TSgt Matthews was immediately ejected and sustained serious injuries. Despite torrents of fire from 12 enemy positions as close as 30 meters, he disregarded his own safety and immediately rescued his grievously injured team leader from the overturned, burning vehicle.

While exchanging fire and exposed to increasing enemy volume, TSgt Matthews furiously coordinated decisive Close Air Support (CAS) and a medical evacuation. Refusing extraction, he remained on the ground, accurately directing strafing runs and a "withering barrage of CAS" from multiple air platforms, eventually breaking the enemy attack and allowing his Special Forces team to safely maneuver out of the kill zone. TSgt. Matthews' heroic actions and technical skill undoubtedly saved the lives of his wounded teammates and an Afghan interpreter.

Learn more here: www.combatcontrolfoundation.org/combat-control-act…

4 weeks ago | [YT] | 36

Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

We remember and honor Staff Sergeant Dylan J. Elchin, a Special Tactics Combat Controller who made the ultimate sacrifice on November 27, 2018, in Afghanistan.


SSgt Elchin was a dedicated member of the 26th Special Tactics Squadron, an elite operator trained in reconnaissance, air traffic control, and directing close air support. His commitment to his country was forged early; after witnessing the events of 9/11 as a boy, he was driven to "protect the ones he loved."


His comrades remember him not just for his skill and bravery under fire—earning him the Bronze Star and Purple Heart—but for his character. He was the guy with the "big belly laugh" and a contagious positive attitude who kept his team's spirits high, whether through jokes or his unwavering support on and off the battlefield. Though he was a phenomenal shot and excelled at his job, his defining trait was humility, always showing rather than telling and helping new guys develop their skills.


Dylan's story is one of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie. Let us never forget his service and the price of our freedom. He is Forever Remembered, Forever Honored, We are grateful that such a man has lived.


Learn more about Dylan here: www.combatcontrolfoundation.org/remembering-our-fa…

4 weeks ago | [YT] | 39

Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

This Thanksgiving, we are grateful!

We are grateful for the sacrifices made by our Combat Controllers—sacrifices often unseen. The moments of joy they miss, and the irreplaceable time with loved ones they give up answering the call as elite warriors, always "First There." The quiet professionals.

We are grateful for their unrelenting courage, their bravery on the battlefield, their willingness to face danger head-on, and their resolve to lead where others refuse.
We are grateful for the lives they save, whether under fire on the battlefield, delivering aid during humanitarian missions, or here at home.

We are grateful for their desire to never quit—their willingness to go beyond duty, guided by a heart for others and a commitment to serve.

This Thanksgiving, our gratitude is deeper than words. To our Combat Controllers who sacrifice so much, give so much, and bear so much—we are grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving.

4 weeks ago | [YT] | 32

Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

Yesterday, we had the privilege of stopping by to visit Tristan and his family. We didn’t want to be just a voice on the phone, a text message, or an email. We wanted to take the time and remind them: You are important to us. You are family. We care deeply.

Because of your incredible generosity, we’ve raised over $68,000 toward our first goal of $100,000 to support Tristan’s recovery. Every dollar represents hope, dignity, and the promise that this family is not walking this road alone.

Your support has already provided medical equipment, covered critical expenses, and lifted a tremendous burden from Tristan’s family. But the journey is far from over. His needs of wheelchair-accessible transportation, adaptive technology, specialized care are ongoing, and we know we’ll need to increase our goal as we walk this path together.

This season of gratitude reminds us why we do what we do, because no one should fight alone. Thank you for standing with Tristan, giving, and sharing his story.

To follow Tristan's story and updates, click here: www.combatcontrolfoundation.org/teamtristan

4 weeks ago | [YT] | 27

Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

In 2025, we established an initiative, Operation Buddy Check, to strengthen our community and check on our teammates. We want to do our part in helping our community navigate difficult times, fight those internal battles, and reiterate the team concept; you are not alone.
In such a small, tight-knit community, we must do better at checking on our people.

22 veterans take their own lives every day. On the 22nd of every month, we want you to call or text 5 teammates.

To reach as many people as possible, tell the people that you reach out to, to follow suit and contact 5 of their past or present teammates (and so on).

Check on your people! Try to think of people who you haven't talked to in a while, reach out, and see how they are doing. It takes 30 seconds to send a text message. You never know how impactful a simple check-in will be. A 10-minute phone call is always better than going to your friend's funeral. Take some time to call that old friend and see what type of shenanigans they've been getting into.

The operator stigma can silence our emotional awareness, capacity, and willingness to admit adversity or the need for help. As lifelong teammates, continue to do your part and be a part of the community.

It is okay, to not be okay.

No battle has to be fought alone.

Check on your people.

#FirstThere #CombatControl #BuddyCheck

1 month ago | [YT] | 16

Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

The Combat Control Foundation is honored have been generously donated a Sheepadoodle puppy for a USAF Combat Control family. Thanks to the incredible generosity of Texan Doodles at Triple Y Farm one CCT family will welcome home a loving, hypoallergenic companion.

These amazing dogs are known for their calm temperaments and love of people—the perfect addition to your family. There are additional requirements regarding the donation, please see the link for more information.

Apply today! combatcontrolfoundation.org/puppy

1 month ago | [YT] | 9

Combat Control Foundation | We are First There

Guyana (November 18, 1978): In the immediate aftermath of the Jonestown tragedy and the murder of U.S. Representative Leo Ryan, a Combat Control Team (CCT) from the 1300th MAS at Howard AB, Panama, was swiftly deployed as the Airlift Control Element (ALCE). They were tasked by US Southern Command to provide the only reliable communications and air traffic control link in the region. After establishing the initial HF link from Port Kaituma, they were airlifted directly into Jonestown where they immediately determined the magnitude of the mass casualty event (750+ preliminary count) and maintained the critical communications bridge to Georgetown. For ten days, the Combat Controllers provided essential air traffic control for U.S. Army and Air Force recovery assets (including HH-53s and C-141s) shuttling remains, demonstrating the CCT's unique ability to establish and control decisive access in any degraded environment.

Learn more about this historical mission here: www.combatcontrolfoundation.org/combat-control-his…

1 month ago | [YT] | 11