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Security Forces protects combat resources

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester
  • 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan --  They're on the flightline, at entry control points, and along the perimeter. Sometimes, they're not seen at all.

They are security forces.

While the exact numbers are classified, members of the 455th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron are located throughout Afghanistan helping fight the Global War on Terror.

They provide flightline security and mission support, perform tactical security missions, and secure aircraft, cargo, and passengers with the Fly Away Security Teams -- the largest in the Central Command area of responsibility.

"We limit the enemies' resources and capabilities by securing areas so our members and coalition forces can do their missions," said Capt. Pedro Jimenez, 455th ESFS operations officer deployed from the 824th Security Forces Squadron, Moody Air Force Base, Ga. "The enemies see a deterrent when they see us all over the place, so they don't damage aircraft, people or sabotage missions."

When a new team is brought together for any amount of time, it takes time to gel. But the members of 455th ESFS, who are deployed from various locations for six-month rotations, make it happen without hesitation because everyone understands their respective role in supporting the Global War on Terror.

"We are essentially protecting over $3 billion worth of combat assets," said Master Sgt. Donnie Bolton, 455th ESFS operations superintendent deployed from the 824th SFS. These assets are essential to the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing's mission of providing expeditionary combat operations and expeditionary combat support to U.S. and Coalition forces operating in Afghanistan.

While vulnerable to mortar and rocket attacks, as well as IEDs and indirect fire, not one team member hesitates to do their job knowing it's essential to effectively accomplishing the mission.

"By crippling the bad guys, which is our job, we protect the number one asset, the people who accomplish the mission of fighting terror and building peace for the people of Afghanistan," Sergeant Bolton added.