ROCK SOLID WARRIOR Published May 29, 2009 387th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Airman 1st Class Kerah Whitfield Job: Security Forces Member Home unit: 435th Security Forces Squadron Ramstein Air Base, Germany How do you support the mission here? As an Airman, I support the 387th Air Expeditionary Group mission first and foremost by promoting bi-lateral relationships with host nation personnel and third country nationals. I believe in treating everyone with respect, courtesy and applying "The Golden Rule" in dealing with all people I encounter. This is important because I have the power as an Airman to provide a positive example of an American citizen thus potentially changing the mind set of someone who might have ill impressions otherwise. As a Security Forces member, I have numerous duties. One duty I am directly responsible for is controlling entry to the installation. This requires me to know approximately 30 forms of identification cards and badges. I also validate all entry authority lists before I grant entry. While not posted at entry control points, I conduct mobile patrols outside the wire to observe and mitigate potential threats against approaching and departing aircraft and the base. If a situation arises, I respond and take the appropriate action. This is how I support the mission here while posted as a Defender. How many times have you deployed and what makes this one unique? This is my first deployment, which makes it unique in itself. With the amount of cargo movements and passenger arrivals and departures, I get to see firsthand on how many people and how much equipment is necessary to sustain the missions in support of OEF/OIF. Additionally, when I have thought about what a deployment might be like, I did not think I would ever be so fortunate to have the exceptional living conditions in a deployed location. This has allowed me to adapt to the deployed lifestyle very well. How does your job differ in a deployed environment vs. home base? In a deployed environment there is a higher threat than at home station. Here, I accomplish anti-terrorism measures. Additionally, I insure I am in compliance with all OPSEC and COMSEC measures and correct others who are in violation. At home station, the majority of my duty is spent on the flight line or on a law enforcement patrol. I have never had the opportunity to patrol outside the wire until now. This deployment afforded me the opportunity to put into practice the training and techniques I was taught in tech school and the written guidance I learned in my CDCs.