SECURITY POLICE

• Origins in World War II: The Security Police trace their roots to the Army Air Forces Military Police in World War II, when airfields and aircraft required specialized protection against sabotage and espionage. • Official Formation: The United States Air Force Security Police were officially established in 1947, coinciding with the formation of the U.S. Air Force as a separate branch. • First Female Members: In 1971, the Air Force Security Police became one of the first military police organizations to allow women to serve in law enforcement roles. • Vietnam War Heroics: Security Police units played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, notably defending Tan Son Nhut Air Base during the Tet Offensive in 1968, earning the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor. • Specialized K-9 Units: Security Police have long worked alongside military working dogs, which are trained for patrol, drug detection, and explosives detection missions. • Transition to Security Forces: In 1997, the Security Police merged with the Air Base Ground Defense (ABGD) units and were renamed "Security Forces," reflecting a broader mission set. • “Defensor Fortis” Motto: The Security Police adopted the Latin motto “Defensor Fortis,” meaning “Defenders of the Force,” a phrase that is still used by Air Force Security Forces today. • Presidential Protection: Security Police have participated in protecting Air Force One and providing security for U.S. Presidents on Air Force bases around the globe. • Global Deployments: Security Police and their successors, Security Forces, have deployed to every major conflict since World War II, including Iraq, Afghanistan, and humanitarian missions. • Notable Valor Awards: Members of the Security Police have been awarded some of the highest military honors, including the Silver Star and Bronze Star, for acts of heroism in combat situations.