SECURITY POLICE

The Security Police, originally established as the Air Police in 1947 with the creation of the United States Air Force, were re-designated as Security Police in 1966 to better reflect their dual law enforcement and security roles. Their primary mission has been to protect Air Force personnel, resources, and installations worldwide, especially during the Cold War when they secured nuclear weapons sites and air bases. Security Police units played pivotal roles in Vietnam, defending airfields against enemy attacks, and later participated in operations throughout the Middle East, including Operation Desert Storm. In 1997, the Security Police merged with Law Enforcement Specialists to form the modern Security Forces, continuing their legacy of safeguarding the Air Force’s global operations.