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History of 26th SPS:443rdSPS

The 26th Security Police Squadron (26th SPS) and the 443rd Security Police Squadron (443rd SPS) were United States Air Force units tasked with base security and law enforcement duties, primarily during the Cold War era. The 26th SPS was notably assigned to Ramstein Air Base, Germany, providing protection for vital NATO assets and U.S. personnel. The 443rd SPS was based at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, where it safeguarded strategic airlift operations and critical infrastructure. Both squadrons played essential roles in maintaining base security and readiness until their eventual inactivation or redesignation as Air Force security requirements evolved.

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ABOUT 26th SPS:443rdSPS

  • Origins: The 26th Security Police Squadron (SPS) was activated at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base (NKP RTAFB), Thailand, during the Vietnam War to provide base security and law enforcement.
  • Primary Mission: The squadron's primary mission was to protect U.S. Air Force personnel, aircraft, and resources from enemy attack, particularly against Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army threats.
  • Operation Safe Side: Members of the 26th SPS participated in innovative tactics developed under Operation Safe Side, which greatly enhanced Air Force ground defense capabilities.
  • K-9 Handlers: The 26th SPS was known for its highly trained K-9 teams, which played a crucial role in perimeter security and detection of intruders or explosives.
  • Distinguished Unit: The squadron received several unit awards for outstanding performance, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor for actions in Southeast Asia.
  • Night Ambush Teams: The unit deployed ambush teams beyond the perimeter wire at night, intercepting enemy sappers and infiltrators attempting to sabotage aircraft and facilities.
  • 443rd SPS Connection: The 443rd Security Police Squadron was the stateside "gaining unit" for many 26th SPS members upon their return to the U.S., at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma.
  • Cobra Attack: The base and its security police faced frequent rocket and mortar attacks, and on several occasions, the 26th SPS engaged enemy forces directly, preventing major damage and casualties.
  • Vietnam Service: The 26th SPS and its members are recognized on the Vietnam Security Police Association (VSPA) roster, commemorating their service in a hazardous combat zone.
  • Legacy: The heritage and traditions of the 26th SPS/443rd SPS are preserved by veterans' groups and reunions, keeping alive the stories of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie forged in war.

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