UNITED STATES AIR FORCE SECURITY FORCES

• Origins in World War II: The Air Force Security Forces trace their lineage to the Army Air Forces Military Police Corps, established in 1942 to protect air bases and resources during World War II. • Defenders of the Force: Members are known as "Defenders," a title that reflects their dual role in law enforcement and force protection. • First to Respond on 9/11: Security Forces personnel were among the first Air Force responders after the 9/11 attacks, rapidly increasing security at all Air Force installations worldwide. • First Air Police Killed in Korea: On December 22, 1950, Air Police (predecessors to Security Forces) suffered their first combat fatality in Korea, highlighting their role in direct combat zones. • Operation Safeside: In the late 1960s, Security Forces (then Air Police) ran the experimental "Operation Safeside," forming the 1041st Security Police Squadron (Test), which specialized in air base ground defense and influenced later doctrine. • Guardians of Nuclear Weapons: Security Forces are entrusted with the protection of the Air Force’s nuclear arsenal, making them a critical part of the U.S. strategic deterrence mission. • Women in Security Forces: The Air Force Security Forces were one of the first military law enforcement organizations to fully integrate women into their units, starting in the 1970s. • Distinguished Beret: Security Forces wear a distinctive blue beret, symbolizing their role as elite defenders and differentiating them from other Air Force specialties. • K-9 Handlers: Security Forces include military working dog (K-9) teams, who have been deployed in every major conflict since Vietnam, excelling in explosive detection, patrol, and search missions. • Global Deployments: Security Forces have seen action in every major conflict since their creation, including Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, and ongoing global anti-terrorism operations.