4520th Air Police Sq (TAC)

• Formation Purpose: The 4520th Air Police Squadron (Tactical Air Command - TAC) was created to provide security and law enforcement for pilot training operations, primarily at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. • Vietnam War Connection: Many members of the 4520th Air Police Squadron later deployed to Southeast Asia, bringing their experience to security operations in Vietnam and Thailand. • Fighter Weapons School Support: The squadron was responsible for safeguarding the USAF Fighter Weapons School, which trained top fighter pilots and is the predecessor to today’s USAF Weapons School. • Red Flag Exercises: The unit played a key role in securing early “Red Flag” exercises, large-scale air combat training events held at Nellis AFB. • Cold War Mission: During the height of the Cold War, the 4520th guarded both conventional and nuclear weapons storage areas at Nellis, maintaining strict security protocols. • Unit Patch Significance: The squadron’s patch featured a blue shield with a torch, symbolizing vigilance and readiness to protect the base and its personnel. • K-9 Teams: The 4520th Air Police Squadron was among the first at Nellis to deploy military working dogs for patrol, detection, and perimeter security duties. • Transition to Security Police: In the late 1960s, the “Air Police” designation transitioned to “Security Police,” reflecting a broader security mission, and the squadron was redesignated accordingly. • Involvement in Air Shows: The squadron routinely provided security for high-profile events like the Air Force Thunderbirds’ demonstrations at Nellis. • Legacy and Lineage: The 4520th’s traditions and lineage contributed to the formation of the 57th Security Forces Squadron, which continues to guard Nellis AFB today.