28th SFS defends Ellsworth

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Zachary Hada
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Members of the 28th Security Forces Squadron - military and civilian - are tasked with the mission of securing and defending Ellsworth Air Force Base.

They are charged with to protecting the base and its assets 24/7 while enforcing standards of conduct and discipline in accordance with state, military and federal laws.

"We are in charge of all of the base security and law enforcement functions," said Airman 1st Class Hunter Harveston, 28th SFS response force member. "Keeping people safe is what we do and one of our top priorities."

Defenders like Harveston protect Airmen, their families and government assets such as base facilities, B-1 bombers and transient aircraft. They are the first line of defense at Ellsworth.

Security Forces members are always working hard to keep Ellsworth secure said Master Sgt. Thomas Carpino, 28th SFS operations flight chief. They are willing to do whatever necessary to ensure the job is done right and constantly show a high level of initiative, discipline and professionalism.

Carpino added that the mission at Ellsworth owes much of its success to the unwavering dedication Ellsworth defenders exhibit every day toward their profession.

Each day presents new challenges and opportunities so defenders need to remain alert and be ready to respond to any situation at a moment's notice, said Harveston.

Duties are split between the protection of assets and personnel, and law enforcement.

In a single day, Harveston can work flightline security, guard entry points at base gates, respond to alarms, or enforce traffic laws for the base.

"I love working in law enforcement," Harveston said. "I enjoy being able to carry out multiple duties that go with my job which keep everyone on base safe."

While on flightline security detail, SFS members protect the installation's fleet of B-1 bombers. They also guard supplies scheduled to be loaded on aircraft.

Before entering the base, drivers must present an authorized identification card to the entry controller. Patrolmen drive throughout the base enforcing road laws and responding to emergency calls as flightline security protect the aircraft.

On the other hand, unlike entry controllers and flightline security, patrolmen guard across the entire installation. They are tasked with maintaining law and order.

"Airmen would have a difficult time performing their duties if they constantly had to worry about their personal safety," Harveston said. "They can go to work each day knowing that we are watching out for them and keeping them safe."