LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- While Luke Air Force Base is well known for training combat aviators who soar through fighter jets across the sky, there is another mission happening quietly every day; one that does not have a traditional front line.
The 56th Communications Squadron stands at the center of this fight, protecting the security of Luke AFB’s networks, guarding sensitive information, and enabling mission success across the base. As the Air Force observes Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we emphasize that cyberspace remains a battlefield where vigilance and education are key.
“Hacking doesn’t happen often like you see in the movies,” said U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Quinn McDowell, 56th CS officer in charge. “It usually happens through the manipulation of people. We have to make sure everyone stays educated so we’re prepared at all times.”
Cyber threats often rely on exploiting human behavior rather than complex code. Phishing emails, malicious links, and other social engineering tactics are among the most common methods adversaries use to gain access to secure systems.
“People don’t always see the immediate effects of being complacent,” said Tech. Sgt. Robert Marquez, 56th CS noncommissioned officer in charge of wing cybersecurity. “We don’t want our enemy obtaining information from us. If we stay vigilant, we’re doing what we’re supposed to do.”
The 56th Fighter Wing is no less of a target in cyberspace. Whether in Arizona or overseas, adversaries are constantly seeking vulnerabilities to exploit. This means the work of the 56th CS is critical to every mission at Luke AFB. Their responsibilities span from maintaining secure communication lines to ensuring pilots and mission planners can access information quickly and safely.
“You rarely get a thank you when you’re working comms,” said Airman 1st Class Jordan Clark, 56th CS cyber readiness cell technician. “That doesn’t make it any less rewarding, all of the missions at Luke run through us, and it says a lot about how hard we work.”
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is not just about promoting good practices; it is about reminding Airmen they all play a part in the fight. Simple actions like reporting suspicious emails, using strong passwords, and avoiding complacency can prevent costly breaches.
“Cyberspace is a constant battleground,” McDowell said. “Even though we’re far from combat zones, the threats are real here every day.”
As the Air Force continues to modernize and integrate technology into every aspect of operations, the 56th CS’s work ensures Luke AFB Airmen remain ready, connected, and secure. They prove the fight in cyberspace is every bit as vital as the fight in the air.