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Bagram Security Forces Airmen pass torch of mission

  • Published
  • By Capt. Mike Meridith
  • 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan --  Airmen from a dozen bases across the U.S. stood together here for the last time today to bid farewell to their squadron and to honor the passing of a piece of Air Force history.
The 755th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, originally formed in December 2005 in response to a U.S. Army request for support of its detainee operations mission, was inactivated during a formal ceremony here today. 

"It is probably the most challenging mission that I could ever envision taking part in," squadron commander Lt. Col. Frank Howard told the audience, including the 123 members of his squadron, during the ceremony. "These Airmen made the mission happen without serious injury and with dignified, respectful treatment of detainees." 

Colonel Howard also noted that current squadron members excelled in nearly every facet of their performances during their eight-month deployment here. Among the accomplishments he cited were the award of 130 individual decorations and more than 300 organizational coins to squadron Airmen for superior performance, 40 squadron promotions and the recognition of a dozen individuals at higher organizational levels. 

"The squadron showed just what can be achieved when we provide the structure that allows the freedom for our Airmen's talents and strengths to be fully brought to bear in the joint mission," said Col. Thomas Huizenga, commander of the 755th Air Expeditionary Group. 

Following remarks from Colonel Howard and Colonel Huizenga, the squadron guidon was cased, signifying the inactivation of the unit and the transfer of duties to the Sailors of Task Force Trident. Although there was a sense of relief among many squadron members as they prepared to return home, there was also a bittersweet element to the proceedings as a part of Air Force history passed. 

"A squadron inactivation is always a time for reflection," Colonel Huizenga told squadron members, adding a caveat. "The squadron designation remains available. If the call comes again, I pray that there will be Airmen equal to your mettle to answer."