842nd Security Police Group

• Vietnam War Origin: The 842nd Security Police Group was activated in 1966 during the Vietnam War to provide base security for U.S. Air Force installations. • Primary Role: The unit's main mission was to defend key air bases in South Vietnam, countering both sabotage and ground attacks. • Headquarters Location: The group was headquartered at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, one of the most strategically important and heavily targeted bases during the war. • Tet Offensive Actions: During the 1968 Tet Offensive, the 842nd played a vital role in repelling large-scale Viet Cong and North Vietnamese attacks on U.S. air bases. • Subordinate Units: The group oversaw several squadrons, including the 377th, 3rd, 35th, and 12th Security Police Squadrons, each responsible for different air bases. • Innovative Defenses: The unit implemented innovative security measures, such as perimeter lighting, intrusion detection systems, and K-9 patrols to counter enemy infiltration. • Medal of Honor Recipients: Members of the Security Police units under the 842nd's command, such as Sgt. William J. "Bill" Svitak, displayed extraordinary heroism, with some being recipients of high honors. • Casualties and Sacrifice: The group suffered numerous casualties in the line of duty, with security police often being the first line of defense during enemy assaults. • Dissolution: With the drawdown of U.S. forces in Vietnam, the 842nd Security Police Group was inactivated in March 1973 as American involvement concluded. • Legacy: The 842nd set the foundation for modern Air Force security forces, influencing tactics, training, and operational doctrine for base defense in hostile environments.