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JB MDL Airman ensures security for Southwest Asia base

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Scott Sturkol
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Airman 1st Class Julio Rivera Jr. is a security forces journeyman with the 380th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron at a non-disclosed base in Southwest Asia.

Rivera is deployed from the 87th Security Forces Squadron at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J.

As a security forces Airman, Rivera supports all security and force protection efforts for a deployed wing of more than 1,900 people and for billions of dollars worth of Air Force equipment and assets.

Security forces Airmen like Rivera receive a host of specialized training to complete their deployed mission. Rivera is required to lead, manage, supervise and perform force protection duties, including the use of deadly force to protect personnel and resources. He's also required to perform air base defense functions contributing to the force protection mission, which includes controlling and securing terrain inside and outside military installations.

A typical day at work for Rivera includes wearing the latest in "battle rattle." This consists of protective armor and combat-ready gear. He'll carry a loaded M-4 rifle, and possibly an M-9 pistol, while carrying out his deployed duties.

In addition to doing his job of defending personnel, equipment and resources from hostile forces, security forces members like Rivera are capable of operating in various field environments and can perform individual and team patrol movements. Movements include mounted and dismounted patrols, tactical drills, battle procedures, convoys, military operations other than war, anti-terrorism measures and other special duties.

Rivera and his fellow security forces operate communications equipment, vehicles, intrusion-detection equipment, crew-served weapons and other special-purpose equipment. Security forces apprehend and detain suspects, search persons and property, secures crime and incident scenes and collect, seize and preserve evidence. As first responders, security forces Airmen like Airman Rivera apply self-aid buddy care and other life-saving procedures at accident and disaster scenes.