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21st Special Tactics Squadron Combat Controllers guiding a C-130 to land
Air Force Special Tactics Combat Controllers on a ridgeline - About the CCF Foundation Header image

About The Foundation

First There.

Our Mission

The Combat Control Foundation is First There in providing care and support to Combat Controllers (CCT), their families and other members of the military community through its programs, or through partnerships with similar charitable organizations.

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Download our INFORMATION PACKET using the PDF icon on the page.

Combat Control Foundation Information Packet Cover Graphic
Combat Controllers & Combat Control Foundation at our 3rd Annual Gala at the Legends Honky

Who We Are

Established in 2021, the Combat Control Foundation (CCF) is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that provides programs of support to all eras of our nation’s Combat Controllers, their families, and other members of the military special operations community.  Our First There programs focus on providing care and support through four pillars: Resilience, Wellness, Education and Heritage.

CCF Board of Directors

Presenting our board of directors composed of former United States Air Force personnel, Combat Controllers, and dedicated civilians, all committed to being First There for Our Nation's Combat Controllers, the Air Force's Special Warfare Elite Operators.

Special Tactics Airmen call in precision airstrikes

What is a Combat Controller?

U.S. Air Force Special Tactics Combat Controllers (CCTs) are some of the most highly trained, special operations forces in the world. Trained as elite air traffic controllers, their unique skill sets make them the deadliest warriors on the planet. They specialize in controlling airspace in combat and austere environments, calling in precision air strikes and delivering humanitarian support around the world as the first, “first responders” to arrive during a disaster.

Combat Control Foundation's Programs

Buddys Furniture Donation Pickup for Combat Control Foundation

Assisting in times of crisis and tragedy

First There 4 Wellness with the Air Force Academy Wrestling Team

Support that aids in recovery

higher education college library

Supporting education opportunities

LR Bob Haverty, Dave Hughes,Bob Edmisten, Tom Watson, Dave Gfeller, Charlie McCarthy - Combat Control History

Preserving history of the community

About The Combat Control Foundation

The Combat Control Foundation (CCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 2021 and we are First There to provide care and support to Combat Controllers (CCTs), their families, and other members of the military special operations community. The Foundation focuses on four pillars: Resilience, Wellness, Education, and Heritage.
 

The Combat Control Foundation’s First There 4 Resiliency (FT4-R) program provides mission critical support for combat controllers, their families, and Gold Star families during challenging times. From emergency assistance like home repairs, rent relief, and medical travel to grief counseling, we’re here to help meet urgent needs and honor sacrifices. Our support covers funeral and memorial expenses, sponsorship of remembrance events, and logistical aid, ensuring a dignified farewell for fallen heroes. To strengthen resilience, we've provided for day-to-day necessities such as cell phone coverage, daycare, and hotel stays, as well as unique opportunities like retreats, and recreation to foster healing. We have also assisted with financial barriers to professional requirements, covering costs for certifications, legal needs, and counseling. Whether providing tickets to a game for a Gold Star family or funding a retreat to promote mental wellness, our commitment is unwavering: to reduce stress, promote well-being, and empower our community to face life’s toughest challenges with strength and resilience.


The demanding nature of Combat Control duty takes a toll on the well-being of warriors and their families, both physically and mentally. Our First There 4 Wellness (FT4-W) program provides crucial financial and logistical aid to Combat Control Team (CCT) members who sustain critical injuries or fall ill. By relieving the associated burdens, we empower them to prioritize their healing journey and well-being. We also extend our support to family members facing difficulties, and we remain committed to promoting the well-being of warriors, families, and veterans. Our goal is to ensure their continued health by providing the necessary assistance and resources for their overall wellness.

 

Through our First There 4 Education (FT4-E) program, we aim to empower Combat Control Team family members by providing scholarships for higher education and training. We are committed to supporting quality education opportunities for dependent children, especially in geographically separated duty locations where the right educational choices are vital for the student's overall success. The goal of FT4-E is to ensure that education remains accessible and attainable for the families within the Combat Control Community.

Our First There 4 Heritage (FT4-H) program is committed to preserving, educating and honoring the legacy of the Combat Control Community. With initiatives like historical interviews, memorials, reunions, and public educational events, we ensure that the extraordinary acts of service and enduring brotherhood within the community are celebrated and remembered. Through recognitions like the MSgt John A. Chapman Service Before Self Award and support for Combat Control graduations, we strengthen the bonds that define this proud legacy and educate others about the exceptional contributions of Combat Controllers.

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