Black boots, white laces

by Airman 1st Class Jose L. Leon
22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

10/19/2012 - MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.  -- The elite gate guard uniform is now being utilized as the uniform for seventeen 22nd Security Forces Squadron entry controllers as of March 2012.

While gate guards display the precision and professionalism of Air Force Airmen, their main objective is to ensure the security of McConnell.

According to Tech Sgt. Terrance Williams, 22nd SFS elite gate guard section NCO in charge, the elite gate guards represent the best of the 22nd SFS and the 22nd Air Refueling Wing as Airmen, families, civilians and retirees enter through McConnell's gate.

"The uniform changed because we as security forces members needed a change for the better," said Williams. "We felt it was important for us to be able to hold the professional image and be able to maintain the first line of defense at the same time."

The uniform consists of the blue slacks, blue shirt, black, bloused boots with white laces, a chrome whistle and an ascot featuring the Air Mobility Command shield, as it was worn by the elite gate guards before 9/11.

"It makes me feel good to wear this uniform, we get a lot of compliments," said Senior Airman Michael Browne, 22nd SFS elite gate guard section entry controller. "We represent the United States Air Force Security Forces and more specifically the base; we have got a lot of eyes on us."

The elite gate guards display the uniform Monday through Friday, between 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

"The goal of the Elite Gate Guard Section is simple, security and customer service," said Williams. "We are McConnell's first line of defense and the first person you will see coming onto the installation. So with that being said, we aren't allowed to have a bad day. Our goal is to continue to improve on our security procedures and tactics as well as making a positive first and lasting impression with the base populace and visitors who we encounter."