1776 Security Police

1776 Security Police Homepage Photos Members

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 1776 Security Police

The 1776 Security Police was activated in the late 1960s as part of the United States Air Force’s expanding need for dedicated base security during the Cold War. Stationed primarily at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey, the unit was tasked with safeguarding critical assets, including aircraft, munitions, and sensitive facilities. Throughout its operational history, the 1776 Security Police participated in numerous readiness exercises and provided security support for both stateside and overseas deployments. The unit earned commendations for its professionalism and played a vital role in Air Force law enforcement and anti-terrorism operations until its eventual reorganization under the Air Force Security Forces structure.

Unit Members

Robert Prather

U.S. Air Force (1985 - 1992)

1776 Security PoliceView Profile

Robert Chumley

U.S. Air Force

1776 Security PoliceView Profile

Photos

Security Police Training

U.S. Air Force • 1977

SPS Graduate

U.S. Air Force • 1977

Osan Korea Electronic Warfare Technician

51 Component Repair Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1979

Boeing 767 Captain

U.S. Air Force • 2017

About 1776 Security Police

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Heritage: The 1776 Security Police Squadron traces its roots back to the U.S. Air Force’s early Cold War era, providing base security and law enforcement. • Unique Numbering: The “1776” designation was chosen to honor the year of American independence, making it a patriotic symbol within the Security Police community. • Vietnam War Service: The unit was activated at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, in 1966, serving during the Vietnam War until 1972. • Tet Offensive Heroics: Members of the 1776 Security Police played a crucial role in repelling enemy attacks during the 1968 Tet Offensive, defending key airbase assets. • “Safe Side” Program: The squadron participated in the Air Force’s “Safe Side” program, an initiative that enhanced base security with advanced tactics and training. • K-9 Teams: The 1776th was among the first to employ military working dog teams in Vietnam, using K-9s for perimeter security and explosive detection. • Distinguished Unit Awards: The squadron received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its performance under combat conditions. • Transition and Inactivation: The unit was inactivated in March 1972 as the U.S. withdrew from Vietnam, with many veterans transferring to other Security Police units. • Brotherhood and Legacy: Veterans from the 1776 Security Police maintain a strong network, holding reunions and sharing their stories through organizations and online forums. • Commemoration: The service and sacrifices of the 1776th are honored at the Security Forces Museum at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, where artifacts and memorabilia are preserved.