Photo By Alexx Pons | U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Robert McNicol, 56th Special Operations Intelligence...... read more read more
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CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. - This feature is the seventh in a series of Air Commando spotlights at Cannon. The Airmen being highlighted are recent Diamond Sharp award winners. Diamond Sharp is a monthly program where Airmen are recognized by wing leadership and first sergeants for their hard work and achievements.
Not all of today’s wars are fought on the battlefield. Much of the United States’ recent global efforts against terror have taken place in intelligence centers around the world. Recognizing and exploiting information gathered through intelligence networks can be the difference between victory and defeat.
Intelligence analyst specialists with the 56th Special Operations Intelligence Squadron at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., have duties ranging from producing technical and operational briefings to help identify real-time threats and warning levels around the globe.
“We are literally the eyes and ears for Cannon,” said Airman 1st Class Robert McNicol, 56 SOIS intelligence analyst. “I have to be able to provide leadership with on-the-spot information on global occurrences.”
McNicol’s primary task is supporting aircrew members - providing pre-flight mission briefs and mission-relevant intelligence to Cannon’s flyers.
The young Airman, a Walla Walla, Wash., native, joined the Air Force straight out of high school.
“I had spoken to a lot of my friends about enlisting and they all told me I should pursue intelligence as my career field,” McNicol said. “The ironic thing is that I’m terrified of public speaking, which happens to be a huge part of my job. I suppose having to face one of my fears on a daily basis keeps me humble.”
Along with briefing personnel, McNicol must have an understanding of communications, electronics and critical problem-solving skills to effectively contribute to Cannon’s core mission.
The stellar Airman recently finished his Career Development Courses and plans on directing energy toward personal studies – he hopes to commission someday. Since arriving at Cannon, McNicol has created new “Threat of the Day” briefs tailored to the latest Non-Standard Aviation requirements.
“I’m passionate about the work I’m doing for the Air Force,” McNicol added. “The people here are amazing and we have a great mission. I’m proud to be part of this command, base and contributing in any way supporting the wing.”
| Date Taken: | 12.04.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 12.07.2012 13:42 |
| Story ID: | 98938 |
| Location: | CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, NEW MEXICO, US |
| Web Views: | 188 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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