90th SFS: Squadron Defends Warren Published Sept. 29, 2008 By 2nd Lt. Bradley Shaughnessy, 2nd Lt. William Gripp 90th Security Forces Squadron F.E. WARREN AFB, Wyo. -- People often perceive security forces members as just performing traditional law enforcement duties. These are the most visible security forces members. However, they are a small part in the large picture. Five security forces squadrons comprise Warren's 90th Security Forces Group. Each possesses a distinct mission: The 90th Missile Security Forces Squadron provides missile launch facility defense; The 790th Missile Security Forces Squadron runs convoy operations, provides security escort teams and posts camper alert teams; The Tactical Response Force functions as a SWAT team; The 90th Security Support Squadron supports supply, vehicle and other logistical requirements. However, the most unique squadron might be the 90th Security Forces Squadron due to its multifaceted mission. The primary mission of the 90th SFS is the defense of protection level one resources stored within Warren's confines. Additionally, members of the 90th SFS protect Warren's base populace. This service is provided through gate guards, military-working dogs and law enforcement section utilization. Gate guards control installation entry and exit 24 hours a day, seven days a week. These individuals provide visitors with their first impression of Warren. Also, they are the first line of defense. The military working dogs and their handlers provide another integral piece of the security puzzle. The dogs are primarily trained in narcotics and bomb detection; however, unlike many of their homeland security or Secret Service counterparts, a vast majority are also trained to provide law enforcement support. Military working dogs and their handlers form a unique bond. They both must work and know each other's signals for numerous situations which might arise, including positive bomb or drug detecting, searching for a suspect or knowing when the other member is tired or sick. In addition to their base duties, these teams are also responsible for providing direct support for various agencies. Finally, the 90th SFS provides an active police force that serves and protects base people and their families. They are first responders for incidents ranging from minor vehicle accidents to homicide. No matter what type of incident, their primary responsibility is always to restore order, a particularly difficult task when one considers all the circumstances that influence a situation. These wide ranging responsibilities require highly trained and multi-certified individuals. Many of these defenders might serve as gate guards one day and crawl in the dirt as security response team members the next. "I like the variety in my job," said Staff Sgt. Angela Zuniga, 90th SFS. "I can patrol the base on Monday, protect PL 1 resources on Tuesday and work the gates on Thursday. I never get bored." As all Airmen, the 90th SFS members strive to live by the Air Force core values every day. Integrity First "As a member of security forces, my job is to set the standard," said Tech. Sgt. James Sandusky, 90th SFS. "I can't enforce the rules if I don't follow them myself. I do my best to put integrity first. "If I drive 25 mph in a 15 mph residential area, how can I issue someone a speeding ticket?" he said. " I would be a hypocrite, and I'd ruin both my reputation and the reputation of my troops." Service Before Self "I look forward to coming to work every day, even though our 14-hour shifts take away time from my husband my children," said Senior Airman Riley Marx, 90th SFS. "Don't get me wrong. I love spending time my family. But I know my sacrifice keeps them safe and ensures their freedom." Excellence In All We Do "I love my job, and I am proud to serve my country," Airman Marx said. "Everyday, I strive to be the best cop I can be. I train for new positions, I look out for my peers, and I serve this community."