A combat controller from the 23d Special Tactics Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Fla., communicates with A-10C Thunderbolt II pilots, Dec. 3, 2014, at the White Sands Missile Range, N.M. Combat controllers secure and prepare runways in forward locations to support aircraft in austere environments. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Airman 1st Class Ryan Callaghan/Released)