Misawa implements augmentation force

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Phillip Butterfield
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- The 35th Security Forces Squadron implemented the wing's augmentation force program July 7 to assist in the security and protection of Misawa Air Base while 35th SFS members deploy. 

This is the first time in six years that Misawa has had to implement the AUGFOR program. The program selects Airmen from across the fighter wing and services members from other branches stationed here to help the 35th SFS in maintaining base security. 

"Due to Air Expeditionary Force tasking overlaps that occur twice a year, the 35th SFS experiences manning shortages," said Senior Master Sgt. Shawn Drinkard, 35th SFS operations superintendant. "The wing has provided 15 Airmen from different career fields and the Navy has provided three Master of Arms personnel to supplement 35th SFS operations. The Augmentation Force Program is a win-win for the 35th SFS and the installation." 

With service members coming from both the Air Force and the Navy, the AUGFOR program is a means of sharing different experiences. 

"This is a great opportunity for the Navy and the Air Force to work together, "said MA2 Taurean Hunt, Naval Air Facility Security master of arms. The AUGFOR program help bolster forces on each side to prevent shortfalls in security." 

It's enjoyable teaching the AUGFOR class, he said. It's fun to see the students learn something new and it's motivating to. 

The augmentees will be trained over a five-day period, and in this block of training they will learn the skills necessary to fill the role left by the security forces members who are gone. These skills include: security forces concepts and operations, weapons safety, use of deadly force, communications devices, submitting reports, individual and small team tactics, use of handcuffs, search of individuals and areas and vehicles, challenging suspects, Armament Systems and Procedures baton and laser identification detection and ranging devices. 

"With trained force protectors imbedded all over the installation, we bolster our readiness and responsiveness to a threat that can strike any work center or function," said Sergeant Drinkard. "Misawa's tremendous support for the 35th SFS mission takes integrated defense from a theory to a practice." 

As a result of the AUGFOR program, Misawa remains a secure location and more well-rounded Airmen and Sailors are introduced back into their services. 

"I'm happy to have this opportunity," said Senior Airman David White, 35th Force Support Squadron fitness specialist. "I know this training will help in different aspects of my career."