91st Security Police Squadron

• Origins in Cold War Era: The 91st Security Police Squadron was originally activated to provide security for the Minuteman Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) silos at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, at the height of the Cold War. • Nuclear Security Mission: Their primary mission has been the protection of nuclear weapons, specifically the nation's ICBM fields, making them a key component in the United States' strategic deterrence posture. • Lineage and Redesignation: The squadron has undergone several redesignations over the decades, evolving from the 91st Missile Security Squadron to the 91st Security Police Squadron, and later the 91st Security Forces Squadron. • 24/7 Operations: Members of the squadron maintain round-the-clock vigilance, braving harsh North Dakota winters to patrol remote missile sites scattered over thousands of square miles. • Response Force Teams: The squadron includes specialized Response Force Teams ready to react instantly to any security breach or threat to the missile fields. • Combat Arms Training: The 91st provides extensive weapons training, qualifying all base personnel who may be called upon to defend the missile complex. • Historic Incidents: In 1979, a serious security breach at a Minot missile site led to significant upgrades in the squadron’s training and response protocols across the entire U.S. Air Force missile wing system. • Decorations and Awards: The squadron has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for excellence in fulfilling its critical mission under challenging conditions. • Support in National Emergencies: Beyond their nuclear security role, members have deployed in support of natural disaster response and overseas contingency operations. • Motto and Esprit de Corps: The unit’s motto, “Defenders of the North,” reflects their unique role and the pride of safeguarding one of the nation’s most sensitive and vital military assets.