Security forces demonstrate skills during Kyrgyzstan deployment

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Mary Davis
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. (AFPN) --  Warfighters deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom can rest easy knowing their safety rests in the hands of security forces Airmen from here. 

Members of the 71st Security Forces Squadron from Vance deployed to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan, in February to protect Airmen and cargo from increased threats and terrorist activity while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
 
As the 376th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron flight commander, 2nd Lt. Kevin Summers found his home-base responsibilities had expanded. 

“At Vance, I’m in charge of many different aspects within the squadron -- mobility, training, supply and combat arms training and maintenance,” the lieutenant said. “Here, I have the opportunity to deal with the day-to-day operations of the squadron. As the flight commander of the night shift, I’m in charge of several defenders who protect the base.” 

One defender from Vance, Staff Sgt. David Hoy, serves as the battle defense operations center controller and fire team leader at Manas. He knows of the unique challenges deployments raise. 

“When you first arrive at a deployed location, you really don’t know what to expect,” he said. “You aren’t given weeks or months to learn about your new job. It is basically the same, except where and how you treat certain situations.” 

One challenge that comes with the job is communication with the local people, Lieutenant Summers said. 

“The language barrier is an obvious problem,” he said. The defenders communicate with Kyrgyz airport police through interpreters to ensure vital messages are conveyed. 

One thing Sergeant Hoy noticed about the Kyrgyz people is the fair treatment of everyone, regardless of race. 

“The Kyrgyz people are very honorable and proud,” Sergeant Hoy said. “These people may look Russian or Asian, but show no difference between each other. There seems to be no discrimination between races. They are all Kyrgyz. Their unity amazes me.” 

Living conditions are good at Manas, where servicemembers live in dormitories complete with separated showers, latrines and laundry rooms on each floor. 

Servicemembers also have a gym, recreational facilities to help pass the time, and dining facilities -- no Meals Ready to Eat for these deployed Airmen. 

“It has definitely improved since the last time I deployed,” Sergeant Hoy said.
With the 11-hour time difference between Kyrgyzstan and Vance, it can be challenging to keep in touch with loved ones. 

“My fianceé isn’t happy about me being away for several months, but she understands why we are here,” said Lieutenant Summers, who will get married in November. “And she knows I have a job to do. We e-mail a lot and I call once a week.” 

Sergeant Hoy also keeps in touch with his family and friends by telephone and e-mail. 

“My wife is proud of what I do. She is the strongest, most courageous and big-hearted person I know,” he said. “Both our families live in Oklahoma, and I know everyone is always asking if she needs help. This alone sets my mind at ease.” 

“Security Forces Airmen train for all environments and situations, never knowing where they may be deployed,” said Maj. Rob Rossi, 71st SFS commander. "I am tremendously proud of our security forces members deployed throughout the world supporting the war on terrorism.”