243rd Air Traffic Control Squadron
Military unit
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The 243rd Air Traffic Control Squadron (243 ATCS) is a unit of the Wyoming Air National Guard specializing in mobile air traffic control. The squadron is stationed at Cheyenne Air National Guard Base, Wyoming.
| 243rd Air Traffic Control Squadron | |
|---|---|
243rd ATCS members watch as a C-130 Hercules under their control departs a dirt airstrip during an exercise, 2020 | |
| Active | 1996–present |
| Country |  United States |
| Allegiance |  Wyoming |
| Branch |  Air National Guard |
| Role | Mobile air traffic control |
| Part of | Wyoming Air National Guard |
| Garrison/HQ | Cheyenne Air National Guard Base, Wyoming |
| Commanders | |
| Current commander | Major Dan Hochhalter |
| Insignia | |
| 243rd Air Traffic Control Squadron emblem |  |
Mission
The 243rd ATCS is one of only ten ANG Air Traffic Control Squadrons located throughout the United States.[1] Their mission is to deploy and employ Air Traffic Control services worldwide.[2]
An important part of the Guard air traffic control mission includes establishing bases in locations without existing air traffic control facilities.[3]
History
242 Air Traffic Control Flight was given a change of station order on 1 July 1996 from Spokane, Washington to Cheyenne, Wyoming.[4] The 242 Air Traffic Control Flight was redesignated the 243 Air Traffic Control Squadron on 1 November 1996.[5]
The 243rd was one of the first units activated in support of Operation Enduring Freedom after the September 11 attacks. The unit was deployed to Jacobabad, Pakistan.[6]
Awards
Career Fields
The 243rd ATCS has numerous career fields including: Air Traffic Controller, Airfield Systems, Ground Radar Systems, Electrical Power Production, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Logistics Plans, Material Management Administrative, and Personnel.[8]
Bases stationed
- Cheyenne Air National Guard Base, Wyoming (1996 – present)