115th SFS Airmen provide security for critical supply, transit air base

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jon LaDue
  • 115th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MADISON, Wis. --  The 31 Airmen deployed from the 115th Security Forces Squadron have integrated with their deployed counterparts and provided a smooth transition for operations as part of the 376th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron at the Transit Center at Manas, Kyrgyz Republic. 

"We play a direct role in securing base personnel, coalition forces and resources here," said Capt. John Wheeler. "We will have an excellent opportunity to leave a lasting and positive legacy for the future and any challenges that lay ahead." 

The Transit Center at Manas is a vital air mobility hub for resources, including personnel and equipment, to enter and exit Afghanistan. The base also supports aerial refueling, combat airlift and airdrop, aeromedical evacuation and strategic airlift missions. With such a large array of support functions at the air base, maintaining security and stability is critical. 

"The 115th SFS troops are performing at a very high level," Captain Wheeler said. "I am very proud of our men and women and for good reason. They have proven to be very fast studies of their jobs and are ready to pass that knowledge on to the second and third rotations coming in behind them." 

In addition to securing the air base and playing an integral role in personal security operations, the Madison-based airmen also support humanitarian objectives and work to maintain the positive relationship with the Kyrgyz Republic. 

The security forces airmen visit a local village school every couple of weeks and help with construction projects and other humanitarian services. 

"Our work with the local village can undoubtedly add to our relationship with the host nation," Captain Wheeler said. 

The members assigned to the coalition air base serve as a joint force, encompassing more than 1,000 service members and 650 defense contractors from the United States, Spain and France. 

The deployed members are expected to return early next year.

(Senior Airman Steele C G Britton, 376th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs, contributed to this story)