Security Forces Flawless Performance

by Senior Airman Duane Morgan
174th Attack Wing

11/12/2015 - HANCOCK FIELD AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.Y. -- Approximately 26 Airmen from the 174th Attack Wing's Security Forces Squadron deployed to Al Udeid Air Base in support of Operations INHERENT RESOLVE and FREEDOM'S SENTINEL from January 22, to August 5.

"For a majority of our Security Forces troops, this was their first time ever deploying," said Master Sgt. Christopher, 174th Attack Wing SFS superintendent.

In preparation for their deployment, the Airmen attended a 3-week combat skills preparation course at the regional training center located at Fort Bliss, Texas. While at the center, the Airmen trained on a variety of combat skills needed to defend air bases in combat zones and other austere operating locations.

Following the combat skills training at Fort Bliss, the Airmen received additional training in trauma and casualty care, expeditionary entry control points and vehicle searches in Baumholder, Germany.

Once deployed to Al Udeid Air Base, the Airmen became a part of a 145-person flight made up of active duty, guard and reserve from 24 different bases around the globe.

During their deployment, the Airmen performed various duties such as safeguarding 11,000 multinational forces and securing over 100 combat aircraft, covering over 210 square miles.

While performing their duties, Airmen from the 174th were able to be work with and train alongside the local Qatari security forces.

"Team Syracuse represented the 174th ATKW well," said Christopher. "Our efforts ensured the success of missions stretching across the entire Air Force Central Command area of responsibility."

Some of the accomplishments by members of the wing included:

Assigned to the Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron female engagement team, SrA Sarah trained and mentored the first class of Qatari Female Police at the Qatari National Police Academy located in Doha.

SSgt Mason and SrA Alec worked jointly with the Qatar National Police providing armed vehicle escort for the OIR Air Coalition Conference, which brought in more than 100 Distinguished Visitors from over 22 nations.

SSgt Christopher responded and extinguished a burning building while off duty. Christopher received the Air Force Central Command and Air Combat Command Ground Safety Award. He also accepted a letter of appreciation from Lieutenant General Hesterman, the current assistant vice chief of staff and director.

TSgt Jason and A1C Nicholas participated in the first joint active shooter exercise involving ESFS and Special Operations Command personnel.

In regards to their accomplishments, Christopher stated that he felt that all of the Airmen from the 174th did an outstanding job and had performed their duties flawlessly throughout their deployment.

"I couldn't be more proud of being part of such a professional group of Defenders," said Christopher.