PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- 2019 is being coined Year of the Defender, which means the 45th Security Forces Squadron has taken the initiative to upgrade capabilities the readiness and resiliency across the squadron.
Brig Gen Doug Schiess, 45th Space Wing commander, and his wife, Debbie, visited the 45th SFS to learn about new capabilities and to be immersed in their mission at Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., April 16, 2019.
This was an opportunity for Schiess to speak with the Defenders that have the capabilities to protect the installation.
To kick off the immersion, Schiess met with Defenders in the guard mount room. They asked him questions about a variety of topics before they were briefed and headed to their posts for the day.
Guard mount is what you are seeing in TV shows about cops. At the beginning of the episode, an officer gives out assignments to other police officers and they brief important information. Guard mount is the Air Force version of that.
After guard mount, Schiess went up to each and every Airmen and thanked them for what they do to protect Patrick AFB and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.
Airman 1st Class Isaiah Bermudez, 45th SFS installation entry controller, met Schiess at the Truck Inspection Gate at Patrick AFB to discuss new installation entry controller capabilities. Bermudez also talked about new equipment including a device smaller than the average smartphone that is used to detect drugs and explosive materials.
“This immersion is important because General Schiess can see the new technology and new capabilities that we have acquired, such as ways to have the Truck Inspection Gate traffic flow more efficiently,” said Bermudez.
After the brief, Schiess recognized a few Airmen for outstanding performance including Staff Sgt. Randle Williams, 45th SFS military working dog handler, and his military working dog, Arras.
Schiess also recognized Bermudez for his hard work and dedication. He asked Bermudez why he thought Patrick AFB was the best base in the Air Force.
“Sir, it’s because Patrick has such a unique mission with us launching rockets,” said Bermudez.
Schiess replied, “We need more Airmen like you on this base.”
With Schiess and his wife viewing new capabilities and meeting some of the Defenders behind the scenes – the Year of the Defender is shaping up to be a great year for 45th Security Forces Squadron Airmen.