Auxiliary Security Forces reinforce security, goodwill

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Kentavist Brackin | Lance Cpl. Kevin Harper, left, a CH-46E Sea Knight avionics mechanic with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265, Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Lance Cpl. Joshua J. Vega, right, a flight equipment worker with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36, MAG-36, both Auxiliary Security Forces Marines, direct traffic while guarding the road leading to the Futenma Flightline Fair on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma Aug. 8.  

CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JAPAN

08.20.2010

Story by Lance Cpl. Kentavist Brackin 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

ASF Marines are activated regularly to conduct patrols, refresher training and assist gate guards when needed.

Throughout the year, the force trains to conduct vehicle inspections, personnel searches, vehicle and foot patrols, and riot control techniques. Their primary purpose is to augment military police during emergencies or special events, as was the case at the Futenma Flightline Fair.

"The Futenma fair is a perfect example of how important the ASF program is to this command," said Staff Sgt. Maurice B. Williams, the company gunnery sergeant for Company A, Marine Corps Base Camp Foster. "In the event a heightened state of security is needed, we have the capability."

Throughout the training week, the Marines practiced entry point security, force protection and biological and chemical detection.

"It is extremely important to stay fresh on the newest techniques and developments," added Williams.

In addition, the Marines played a positive role in community relations because they interacted with the local community, said Williams. "They showed that the base is well protected but allowed the (visitors) to feel comfortable and welcomed."
During the festivities on Futenma, ASF Marines were the first people visitors saw when coming aboard the base, as much a part of the festival as the vendors and aircraft stationed on the flight line.

"This gave some of the Marines who sit behind a desk a chance to get out and do things that we love doing as Marines ... being a force in readiness," said Williams. "They performed in a very professional manner and were motivated throughout the weekend which I expected of them because they are Marines."

• Date Taken: 08.20.2010
• Date Posted: 08.19.2010 22:28
• Story ID: 54867
• Location: CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JP