Eagles take flight: New course prepares Airmen for critical liaison role

  • Published
  • 435th Training Squadron
Scott Air Force Base, Illinois --  

The 435th Training Squadron launched the inaugural Enlisted Air Ground Liaison (EAGLE) course, a rigorous 5-day program designed to equip Airmen with the skills needed to bridge the gap between air and ground forces.  The EAGLE a critical link ensuring cargo is safely and effectively moved for the joint warfighter.

Held from February 19-25, 2025, the first-ever EAGLE course saw Staff Sergeant Madison Robitaille and Ms. Stacey Hunt lead a cohort of Airmen through a dynamic curriculum. Developed with the expertise of Mr. Jerry McCrave and Mr. Kyle Roen, the course combined classroom instruction with hands-on exercises, covering a wide spectrum of essential topics

"The EAGLE course is all about building those critical communication and coordination skills that are essential in a joint environment," explained Staff Sgt. Madison Robitaille, a 435 TRS EAGLE Instructor and Loadmaster.  "We're giving these Airmen the tools they need to effectively operate as force multipliers, ensuring our ground forces have the air support they need, when they need it."

The intensive curriculum delved into the intricacies of joint operations, focusing on areas such as:

• Joint Deployment and Distribution Enterprise (JDDE): Airmen gained a comprehensive understanding of the complex network involved in deploying and sustaining forces, from the initial planning stages to the final destination. They were introduced to systems like the Joint Operational Planning System (JOPES), and Integrated Computerized Deployment System (ICODES) , becoming fluent in the language of joint logistics.

• Army and Marine Corps Operations and Sustainment: Recognizing that effective liaison requires more than just speaking the same language, the course provided in-depth instruction on the operational doctrines and logistical needs of both the Army and Marine Corps. This cross-branch familiarization is key to building trust and ensuring smooth integration in the field.

• Contingency Response and Airfield Operations: EAGLE students were immersed in the world of rapid deployment, learning how to assess airfield suitability, coordinate with host nations, and establish critical air mobility operations in austere environments. This included practical training on conducting Airfield Suitability and Restrictions Reports (ASRRs) and utilizing the Global Air Mobility Support System (GAMSS).

• Communication Systems and Liaison Skills: Recognizing that communication is the cornerstone of effective liaison, the course provided hands-on training on a variety of tactical communication systems, including the PRC-117G and PRC-152A radios, as well as satellite communication equipment. They also received instruction on digital communication platforms like Mattermost, ensuring seamless connectivity with the 618th Air Operations Center. Beyond equipment, the course emphasized the development of essential liaison skills such as negotiation, conflict resolution, and building rapport across branches.

The EAGLE course culminated in a series of practical exercises designed to test the Airmen's newfound skills in a simulated deployed environment. Students were challenged to plan and execute complex movements, coordinate air support requests, and troubleshoot logistical challenges, all while effectively communicating with joint partners.

"The EAGLE course wasn’t just about memorizing information, it was about learning how to think critically and solve problems in a dynamic environment," said one graduating student. "I feel confident that I can hit the ground running and make a real difference in a joint operation."

The course marks a significant step forward in enhancing joint interoperability. As the Department of Defense continues to prioritize multi-domain operations, the demand for skilled liaisons like these EAGLE graduates will only continue to grow.