RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
The 12th Security Forces Squadron hosted members of the Windcrest Police Department June 20 for an immersion that showcased the many different functions of the security forces mission.
A military working dog tour, mobility walk-through, and a visit to the combat arms range were among the scheduled events of the day.
"The 12th Security Forces Squadron was excited to share a bit about what we do here with our community partners from Windcrest," said Maj. Chris Bromen, 12th Security Forces commander. "It was a great opportunity to get to interact with our civilian counterparts who have an understanding of our job."
Although protecting an Air Force base and protecting a township are very different missions, there are many similarities between the jobs of these law enforcement officers, Major Bromen said.
"Our core functions are the same: we're there 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to serve our respective communities by providing police and emergency services," Major Bromen said. "Our biggest difference lies in that the 12th SFS is tasked with a wartime deployment mission, which is where our emphasis has been over the past several years."
The Windcrest visitors were surprised to see the similarities between the jobs of the two organizations during the immersion.
"This tour gave us the opportunity to see that the military Security Forces job is just about the same as ours, even though we're governed by different regulations," said Joe Pabon, Windcrest deputy chief of police.
Chief of Police Lori Harris said that although she is a military "brat," the tour of Security Forces opened her eyes to many things she didn't know about the military coming in.
"It's amazing what it takes to get one soldier ready to deploy, and how much gear is needed," she said. "We've always had a good relationship with Randolph, but coming on base really increased it by giving us the opportunity to put faces with names. It enhances an already friendly atmosphere and makes us more comfortable coming on base."
Major Bromen said even though their uniforms are different, sharing common experiences creates a bond in the law enforcement profession.
"We all know what it's like to be up all night in all types of weather, away from family on holidays and special events, seeing people at their worst and responding to stressful incidents," he said. "We relate to each other."
Windcrest is located approximately eight miles west of the base, near the intersection of I-35 and Loop 410. Windcrest is home to many Randolph Air Force Base personnel and provides city services along with base support.