Guam Air National Guard Activates New Communications Flight Published June 10, 2025 By Airman 1st Class Natasha Ninete ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam – The Guam Air National Guard (GUANG) activated the newly established 254th Communications Flight (CF) and appointed command to Capt. Tommy Joe Rivera during a ceremony here, June 7, 2025. Distinguished visitors from both GUANG and the 36th Wing attended the historic and significant occasion. “The establishment of this flight comes at a time when reliable and secure communications are increasingly critical,” said Col. Veronica Reyes, 254th Air Base Group commander, GUANG. “The new flight positions the Guam National Guard with the means to better support both federal missions within the Indo-Pacific theatre and domestic response operations on our island.” Reyes emphasized the crucial role 254 CF will play in strengthening the resiliency of Guam’s defense and fulfilling the Guam National Guard mission to serve Guam, the Pacific region and the Nation. “In an environment of growing cyber threats and heightened strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific region, the ability to protect communication networks has become an essential component of national defense,” said Reyes. “Having a locally based communications flight enables more agile and responsive operations.” Capt. Tommy Joe Rivera spoke with enthusiasm and determination as the first commander of 254 CF. “My mission is clear; to lead, support, and inspire this incredible team of Airmen to achieve excellence in every task, mission, and challenge we encounter,” said Rivera. “I believe in fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.” The ceremony stood as more than a momentous celebration; it indicated GUANG’s commitment to growth and investment in the future of the mission, the island, and the people.