Commentary>>Security Forces Defenders, our unsung heroes

By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
19th Airlift Wing command chief

From time to time I like to single out certain portions of our base population who may be flying under the radar in forms of recognition. This week I’d like to focus on our Security Forces Defenders.

Typically, we take for granted the selfless dedication these folks display in maintaining installation security for all of us daily. This is even more remarkable when you factor in the level of deployments they are required to fulfill around the world. With an installation that stretches over 6,000 acres, our Security Forces demonstrate a tremendous amount of effort to enable Combat Airlift through force protection.

When there is trouble, our Defenders run towards the situation with the training and desire to quickly resolve any threat to our base. Recently our base experienced a rash of thefts, and true to form our Defenders utilized insightful investigative measures to identify and apprehend those involved. When you think of unsung heroes, our Security Forces has to be at the top of your list.

We are blessed to have an all volunteer force that protects our nation and within that force are those who watch over all of us in uniform. Whether coming through the gate during inclement weather or needing someone to help out during a fender bender, our Defenders carry a great attitude everywhere they go.

Capt. Robert Shaw, who is heavily involved in operations for Security Forces, recently talked about the great relationship our base has with local law enforcement agencies. Many cases have been resolved due to the great partnership we have developed with our community partners. One last fact I’d like to add to this story, there is a tradition that when your name is mentioned in the Combat Airlifter that you must provide donuts to your office. So Captain Shaw will have the privilege of providing a time honored snack to our hard working Defenders.

Combat Airlift!