Reserve volunteers needed for force-protection duties Published June 18, 2004 By Gary Emery Air Force Security Forces Center Public Affairs LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFPN) -- Reserve component enlisted Airmen in any career field are eligible for a unique program allowing them to help protect Air Force bases nationwide. The air reserve component force protection volunteer program gives individual mobilization augmentee, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard members in grades E-6 and below the opportunity to serve tours with security forces units at most stateside bases, said Maj. Scott Parker. He is the air reserve component force-protection liaison officer at Air Force Security Forces Center headquarters here. Volunteers will perform force-protection duties such as manning entry-control and vehicle-inspection stations at base gates as well as other duties, Major Parker said. Assignments will vary from base to base. “People in all (Air Force specialties) are eligible,” he said. “Security forces volunteers will hit the ground running, while volunteers from other career fields will go through a one- or two-week security forces ready training program before assuming their duties.” Tour lengths are variable based on each volunteer’s availability, Major Parker said. The minimum tour length is 30 days, while those who are available for longer periods can begin serving immediately and stay on duty until at least Sept. 29, he said. The Air Force is funding all travel and per diem costs for program participants. Volunteers have a wide range of locations to choose from, Major Parker said. “The list of bases is a moving target, but just about all (continental U.S.) bases have a need for volunteers,” he said. “We have a capable staff that can place individuals at or near their desired location. This program has many benefits, Major Parker said. “People get a chance to volunteer for locations where they would like to go, and the force-protection needs of the Air Force are met as well. It works out well for everyone concerned,” he said.About 2,100 volunteers are already serving in the program, and at least 400 more are needed this fiscal year, Major Parker said. He said he anticipates the program will be funded again next fiscal year for up to 3,000 volunteers.A checklist with requirements and procedures for volunteers is available at http://afsf.lackland.af.mil. Air National Guardsmen who wish to volunteer or get more information on the program can call Major Parker at (210) 925-7051 or DSN 945-7051. Air Force Reserve Airmen can call Tech. Sgt. David Kahler at (210) 925-0305 or DSN 945-0305.Volunteers cannot be on physical profile, must meet Air Force physical fitness standards and must have a government travel card.