Security paramount

  • Published
  • By Col. Stephen N. Whiting
  • 21st Space Wing commander
Security. It's a word we use to talk about a lot of things. Physical security, operations security, personnel security, industrial security, national security, cyber security, personal security, installation security. All of these concepts are important, and all are about protecting something or someone of value.

Security has taken on a new urgency over the last decade. Many of you may remember the days when you could approach the installation gate and be waived on (or saluted) simply because you had a valid base decal on your car. In the post-9/11 era, however, we now realize that old approach left the base vulnerable because the security forces Airman at the gate had no way of knowing who was in the car -- it probably was a service member, but it may also have been a criminal or terrorist who just stole the vehicle or bought it on a used car lot. Today, our Defenders put hands on every driver's identification card, and they even use a biometric system to assist them in allowing only authorized personnel to enter the base.

While we all acknowledge that security is important, there is no doubt that it can create inconveniences at times. For example, if you have ever forgotten your ID card on the way to work, you know you are going to have to head back home before you can get on the base. Additionally, base exercises or real-world events sometimes require the gates to be closed or additional security measures to be used. The same goes for cyber security. We have to use our common access cards to access the network, and then we have to remember (without writing them down in unapproved places!) a number of complex passwords to use various on-line systems. While these measures can certainly be a chore, they ensure we properly protect our vital networks from those who would wish to exploit them.

For the last several weeks, all Department of Defense installations have been at Force Protection Condition Bravo. I want to thank each of you for your superb professionalism as we've increased security in line with our national leaders' direction. From adjusting to parking lots that have become smaller, to manning security checkpoints, to increasing your vigilance, the members of Team Pete have improved the overall security posture of the installation without complaining about the inconveniences that have been imposed.

I also want to thank the Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection professionals on the base. Both full-time and additional duty AT/FP officers have taken their duties very seriously, and implemented a host of security enhancements that quietly have made the base more secure. Some great examples of this are Earl Gillis and Wal Lugo from our 21st SW AT/FP Office. These pros are absolutely passionate about their duties, and are constantly finding ways to improve our AT/FP posture.

Our security forces personnel are also deserving of thanks. For months now, they have implemented a series of security improvements around the base which made the transition to FPCON Bravo seamless for our installation defense forces. These enhancements include a number of security upgrades at the gate which have resulted in dozens of convicted and wanted criminals being denied entry to the base, making us all more secure.

Peterson Air Force Base is fortunate to host some of the most important commands in the DoD. Each of us, whether security is our full-time job or not, are important components in the overall security posture of the base and these commands. Thanks again for your vigilance, patience, and professionalism in implementing security here at Peterson.

If you have questions or comments about the installation AT/FP posture or plans, contact Mr. Gillis or Mr. Lugo at 556-8170.