When your alarm clock goes off and you start your morning with a fresh cup of “Joe,” the mighty 14th Security Forces Squadron defenders stand the watch.

In rain, sleet or snow, they guard Columbus Air Force Base continuously.

While more than 71,000 hours are dedicated to training in the skies, each second is owned by the 14th SFS to protect our number one resource, the people. Ensuring sorties take off and taxi at a steady rate happens in part because Columbus is hardened by defenders each day.

                The first line of defense begins at the Visitor’s Center where defenders process more than 3,500 backgrounds check annually; the center produces 3,300 base passes while also denying access to more than 300 personnel who pose a potential threat to the Team BLAZE community.  

                The 14th SFS maintains 24-hour law enforcement, base defense, reports and analysis, and trains to improve contingency response capabilities. The squadron also teams with federal, state and local law enforcement to conduct training on active shooter response tactics, breathalyzer administration, and K-9 utilization. The Investigations Section and Anti-Terrorism offices periodically assess threats and implement procedures to mitigate risks affecting the base.

                “Producing Pilots, Advancing Airmen, and Feeding the Fight” triangulates the 14th Flying Training Wing’s mission, empowering each defender to act swiftly to deescalate any situation. These men and women are entrusted with the authority of the wing commander to defend your families, deny access, and provide assistance.  The 14th SFS Motto, “We Defend, Day and Night,” holds greater value when incorporating a mission requiring unwavering security at all times. The defenders are there, no matter the situation, big or small.

The defenders deploy globally in support of the Air Force’s Total Force mission, which keeps us safe, home and abroad. Their dedication to the mission requires readiness at all times.  When the local community requires their attention, they respond.  When security is needed, they stand tall, and when your families are sleeping peacefully, one of those defenders is standing for their safety.  Incorporated as a pillar into every mission, they ensure that we all can Fly, Fight and Win.