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644th CBCS 'Top Performer' ready for war

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
The 644th Combat Communications Squadron boasts Airmen who pride themselves on their 'Ready for War!' mindset and their 'Can Do!' spirit while serving as one of four major components for the 36th Contingency Response Group mission.

One Airman from their ranks, Senior Airman Marcus Prentiss, 644th CBCS cyber transport systems and voice systems technician, was selected by his first sergeant Master Sgt. Shawn Bendixson Team Andersen's 'Top Performer.'

"Senior Airman Prentiss' work ethic is second-to-none," Sergeant Bendixson said. "He is the go-to Airman in Combat Comm for tough telephone jobs. He performs his duties with professionalism and a 'Can Do!' attitude. He is an outstanding young Airman with tremendous talent that embodies our motto of 'Ready for War!'"

In his day-to-day duties, Airman Prentiss operates, manages and repairs combat communication voice systems.

"We are the backbone of all communications in tactical environments," Airman Prentiss said. "Our job is to provide telephones and internet capabilities in a matter of hours from ground zero. In other words, making something out of nothing is our specialty."

His skills as a voice system tech allow him to augment the 36th Communications Squadron in situation when they are minimally manned. He cited fixing a malfunctioning console at the command post as a scenario where the 644th CBCS provided support for traditional communications squadron needs.

Airman Prentiss also proudly assists cable maintenance personnel, also known as 'Cable Dawgs,' in as many jobs as the 644th CBCS can support.

"We get down and dirty pulling cables, supporting them with equipment, manning and good esprit de corps," Airman Prentiss said.

During his off-duty time, Airman Prentiss provides volunteer support for projects throughout the wing, including the Andersen First Four Council's 'Share the Spirit' holiday gift drive and Airmen Against Drunk Driving. He also volunteers off-base as the assistant coach for the Yigo Falcons youth football team.

The Chicago native sets an example in the fitness department by participating in as many 5K runs as he can and playing on the base basketball team. Despite keeping a busy schedule, he maintains a sense of family by spending time with his wife and three children.

Airman Prentiss joined the Air Force November 27, 2005. He arrived here in July 2007 after a year at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Airman Prentiss credits the Air Force with giving him a new life.

"Compared to others in the world, I actually have a career!" Airman Prentiss said. "The Air Force provides me with everything that I need to make it in life. I can't ask for anything else."