4th SFS wins ACC Outstanding Medium Security Forces Unit award

by Senior Airman John Nieves Camacho
4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

5/6/2014 - SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C.  -- The 4th Security Forces Squadron was awarded the 2013 Air Combat Command Outstanding Medium Security Forces Unit award April 30 during a ceremony at Seymour Johnson AFB, N.C.

The award was presented to unit representatives by Col. Erik Rundquist, Director of Security Forces, Headquarters Air Combat Command, during the event.

The 4th SFS was selected among 13 other ACC base-level finalists for the award because of its Airmen's ability to demonstrate proficiency in all areas of law enforcement and security operation.
"Winning this award was the culmination of all the hard work the men and women of the 4 SFS put forth throughout the entire year, both here at home station and downrange," said Maj. Troy Jones, 4th SFS commander. "It gives me a sense of pride knowing we're the best and it's something we all can take with us our entire careers."

The more than 250 members of the 4th SFS provide full law enforcement for the installation and ensure the safety and security of all base residents and assets.

"There's a unique level of responsibility in our career field," said Tech. Sgt. Gary Little, 4th SFS unit trainer. "The lowest ranking Airman posted at a gate or riding on a patrol has the responsibility to make split-second decisions regarding lives. They don't have time to call their leadership and say 'What do I do?' We train them from day one to make a decision that could potentially cost someone or save someone's life."

Over the past year, Airmen assigned to the 4th SFS have investigated 81 criminal and 26 drug cases, convicted the suspected individuals 100% of the time. They have also conducted more than 120 joint-service missions in support of contingency operations overseas.

"Regardless of whether it's snowing or pouring down rain, our Airmen persevere through anything," said Jones. "I honestly think we have the best defenders in the Air Force."

Like others in the squadron, Little was filled with a sense of pride, but said winning the award wouldn't change future operations.

"It doesn't change a thing," Little said. "We don't do our job for awards, we do it to keep people alive and accomplish the mission."