Security Forces Deploys

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Patrick McKenna
  • 102nd Public Affairs
OTIS AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Mass. --  More than 10 Airmen from the 102nd Security Forces Squadron recently departed Joint Base Cape Cod for a six-month deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Deployments are not uncommon for the security forces career field. So, when the squadron's leadership received the tasker, they immediately asked for volunteers and the response they received was overwhelming.

"I had more than 30 volunteers," said Capt. Christian Leighton, 102 SFS commander. "As a commander, it's fantastic. We have a lot of young motivated defenders that want to deploy and do the job."

With that many responses, Capt. Leighton and his senior noncommissioned officers had to decide which defenders would be the best fit for the squad needed to deploy. The squad that was eventually selected is a diverse mix of knowledge, experience and youth.

"We picked a great team that'll be led by Master Sgt. Mark Sheridan," Leighton said. "There's a good balance of senior NCOs that have been on many deployments and newer guys that can tap into that experience. They'll do fantastic."

Once the squad was assembled, they began a demanding training schedule which culminated at the Regional Training Center at Fort Dix. N.J. They received high praise from the RTC's staff as well as fellow trainees for their cohesion, motivation and positive attitudes throughout the rigorous training.

The squad is now downrange at their deployed location and turning all their preparation into real world practice. Their responsibilities will range from manning entry control points, vehicle inspections, base and flightline security. No matter what duties they are tasked with, their leadership back at the 102nd SFS is confident in each of and every one of the deployed defenders.

"They're a bunch of go getters," Leighton said. "I foresee they'll come back with accolades and do a good job. Most importantly they'll take care of each other and represent our unit very well."