Communications squadron Airmen highlight the Air Force

  • Published
  • By Airmen 1st Class Jessica Snow
  • 48th Communications Squadron
If a picture says a thousand words, what does the multimedia center say about RAF Lakenheath? 

A walk down any hall in the buildings of RAF Lakenheath will show the work of the MMC.
Along with highlighting the day-to-day work Liberty Airmen do, the MMC supports most base functions. 

Three sections of the MMC provide the base with full visual information support, from graphics, video and photography. 

Supporting the different tasks require the Airmen of the MMC to have several responsibilities. 

"Multimedia is a great tool in the communication process. It is used to reinforce messages from leadership," said Master Sgt. William Folker, a 22-year graphic illustrator who now works as the 48th FW Inspector General Superintendent. "It helps us train and present a situation better than words alone can." 

The graphics section provides wing and group historical displays, artwork to illustrate flying operations and Weapon System Video, which includes editing and packaging WSV for aircrew intelligence. In addition, graphic technicians create web graphics and three-dimensional animation support. 

"Everyone is somewhat creative and knows what they want to say, but might not have the talent or the training to bring it about. It's our job to take their ideas and turn them into something pleasing to others while getting their message out," said Sergeant Folker. 

Videographers produce footage of military operations and provide duplication and editing services to support special military functions, such as change of commands ceremonies, designated visits, award recognitions or site surveys. Videographers often work together with photographers to create a complete package for the customer. 

Besides working with videographers, photographers are responsible for alert, aerial and studio photography, as well as documenting base exercises, deployment operations and more. The images are distributed throughout the Air Force, Department of Defense and civilian publications and are meant to tell the Air Force story. 

"Photography helps capture the history of RAF Lakenheath. It provides visual effects as well as an emotional impact that couldn't be captured with words alone," said Staff Sgt. Christopher Campbell, 
48th CS. 

Alert photographers record damage to any government property or service members. For example, photographers take photos of cooking mishaps, damage to government owned vehicles and injuries to dependents. The photos are used to support the investigations of the 48th Security Forces Squadron and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Alert photography also assists the disaster control group, fire department and Family Advocacy. 

In addition to alert photography, photographers support military ceremonies such as awards and retirements. 

The images, video footage and graphic designs provided by the RAF Lakenheath MMC 
show the hard work, pride and dedication Airmen across the Liberty Wing put into their jobs every day.