Robert Prather

The 89th Security Police Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force, primarily assigned to Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. Activated in the mid-20th century, the squadron was responsible for providing security and law enforcement services, notably safeguarding Air Force One and other critical national assets. Throughout its history, the squadron played a vital role in protecting high-level U.S. government officials, foreign dignitaries, and supporting special air missions. In later years, the unit was redesignated as the 89th Security Forces Squadron, continuing its mission of base defense and integrated security operations.

The 1776 Security Police was activated in the late 1960s as part of the United States Air Force’s expanding need for dedicated base security during the Cold War. Stationed primarily at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey, the unit was tasked with safeguarding critical assets, including aircraft, munitions, and sensitive facilities. Throughout its operational history, the 1776 Security Police participated in numerous readiness exercises and provided security support for both stateside and overseas deployments. The unit earned commendations for its professionalism and played a vital role in Air Force law enforcement and anti-terrorism operations until its eventual reorganization under the Air Force Security Forces structure.