U.S. Air Force Emergency Service Teams

SF RUCK MARCH TO REMEMBER 9-11

2011-08-30T19:44:00.000-07:00

THIS IS A TREMENDOUS EFFORT ON THE PART OF OUR MEN AND WOMEN OF THE USAF SECURITY FORCES. THEY MARCH TO REMEMBER OUR FALLEN SF AND THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF 9-11. THEY WILL MARCH INTO GROUND ZERO ON SEPT 11TH. THEY STARTED AT LACKLAND AFB, TEXAS AND WILL FINISH AT GROUND ZERO. THEY ARE DOING ABOUT 137 TO 147 MILES PER LEG.
THESE ARE OUR YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN OF THE SECURITY FORCES! I SALUTE THEM.

1*
EL JEFE

Historical Photo from Patrick AFB EST Circa 1979

2011-08-23T00:02:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS SO HISTORIC ABOUT THIS PICTURE? WELL...first of all, MSgt Hoard, the top row far left, is basically considered a "Founding Father" of the Air Force Security Police SWAT teams. He was training and running an Air Force SWAT team before the TNT/EST concept was developed in 1978, according to SMSgt Tom Herbert, original concept writer and Course Chief of the first TNT School at Camp Bullis in 1979, who gives much credit to MSgt Hoard. This photo was posted on our Facebook EST page by David McCuen, who is in the 2nd row, second from the right between the two young Lady Operators at that time.
This photo should be in the SF Museum and we hope to do just that.

David's comments to the photo:
EST Team @ Patrick AFB, FL circa 1979 under leadership of MSgt Eugene Hoard (Far Left). Squadron Commander Major Amick on the far right. I am on the bottom row second from the right with Cathy O'Connor to my left. Also in pic is Penny Ridley & Michael Albach. Other names unfortunately escape me.

Thank you David for posting it.

1*
El Jefe

In Memory of Operator TSgt (Ret) Neal Andrew Aldridge, USAF

2010-12-21T11:00:00.000-08:00

Neal Aldridge was a member of the 24th Security Police Squadron Emergency Service Team. He served on the team as a Operator and our Sniper. He is survived by his wife Tanya Aldridge, and his extended Emergency Service Team family. He served with honor, distinction and professionalism and will be missed by many of his friends. If you knew Neal, please feel free to leave a comment on the blog.

Rest in Peace Brother.

1*
El Jefe

Dutchess County Boces Career & Technical Institute, Poughkeepsie, NY Salutes Our Veterans.

2010-11-08T11:48:00.000-08:00

Security Forces Association is meeting in San Diego this week!!!

2010-10-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

The Air Force Security Forces Association is holding its annual conference in San Diego starting tomorrow, Oct 7th through the weekend. If you want more information link to the Security Forces Association Website for more. http://www.afsfaonline.com/

ANNUAL MEETING GREETINGS

"AFSFA members ... it is that time again when we hold our "Annual Guardmount", this year in beautiful San Diego! Hopefully many of you will be joining us to celebrate our career field's heritage, the associations accomplishments to support that wonderful career field and even more importantly ... to just catch up with each other. The San Diego Chapter has again planned a superb forum and series of events for us ... surely a meeting to remember. Travel safe and see you there ... bring your coin or else ... HOOAH!

Respectfully,

John Probst

The AIR FORCE SECURITY FORCES ASSOCIATION

Security Forces men and women, welcome to your website. If you are not a member, please consider joining with the professionals of your Security Forces Association. Our goal is 3500 members this year.

The Air Force Security Forces Association is a world-wide organization of Security Forces professionals with local chapters. Since its birth in 1986 it has been a significant factor in preserving and enhancing the honor and pride that are inherent in the Security Forces career field. Our membership spans generations, encompassing the military policemen (air provost marshals) of World War II and continuing over the years to the men and women who are serving their first hitch today. Membership is open to anyone who has served honorably in the Army Air Corps MPs, Air Police, Security Police, or is now serving in the Security Forces career field--or that component of the Air National Guard, Air Force Reserves, IMAs, or DoD police officers.

Defender Membership:

A new level of membership, the Defender, has been introduced at the SF Academy. It is designed for the active duty troops so that we can get the next generation involved in the Association. We have worked with exoerts from the SF Academy instructor staff who have volunteered their time to create a Facebook page and a forum that will be of special interest to young Airmen.

Magpul - Live Fire Drill

2009-08-02T12:54:00.000-07:00

Magpul -The Real Deal

2009-08-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

GSG9... Doesn't need a translation.

2009-08-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE... 'nuff said!

2009-02-23T14:58:00.001-08:00

To Honor One Of Our Own - In Memorial

2008-12-19T09:19:00.000-08:00

My Fellow Operators... it is never good news to hear about the loss of one of our "own"... This past November, we lost a former EST Operator, "Ernest Eugene (Ernie) Garner... Our sincere condolences to his family and former team mates.

Our thanks to Al Melendez "Nighthawk", for bringing Garner's passing to our attention. In Al's words:

"Ernie Garner, I believe he went through the EST course in the early mid 80's. When I was on the team at Clark I seem to remember an Ernie Garner rotating in who had just finished the EST course and he became our "guide". Memory is a little fuzzy but our Ernie was a big man from Tenn that was soft spoken and liked to smoke Pall Mall Red's. Always quick with a laugh or a smile, he was a buck or a staff when he came to us." I received word from a fellow member of the "Cops of Clark Air Base" group. ... please take a moment of reflection for a fellow SP.

Here is his official Obit...

GARNER, Ernest Eugene (Ernie), age 45. former Coffee County resident, died Sunday, November 16, 2008 at Hillside Hospital in Pulaski, TN.

Mr. Garner was born in Franklin County and attended school there and in Coffee County, graduating from Central High School in Manchester in 1981. He was retired from the United States Air Force, Captain of the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Dept. serving as the Executive Officer. He was also Pastor of Prospect United Methodist Church in Prospect, TN. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police.

He was preceded in death by his parents, L.J. Garner, Jr. and Linda Hastings, and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. E.D. Hastings. He is survived by 2 daughters, Linda Betz and husband Ches of Knoxville, and Jennifer Howell and husband, Jonathon of Lawrenceburg, TN; two grandchildren, Tana and Connor of Lawrenceburg; one step-daughter, Kate Haffnerof Martin, TN; two brothers, Lindsey Garner and wife, Suzanne of Grenada, MS; the grandmother of his daughters, Lelia Sagarang of Lawrenceburg; one aunt, Gail Fraley of Smyrna, TN; one uncle, Ronald Hastings of Erin, TN; and a host of friends and extended family. The family requests memorials are made to the Ernie Garner Memorial Fund at Farmer’s Merchants Bank in Lawrenceburg, TN.

Last Call Out For Emergency Service Team

Operator Ernest E. "Ernie" Garner,

1963-2008 Rest in Peace,

He may be gone, but will never be forgotten!

Dirty Steve Attends the Security Police Association Annual Meeting in New Mexico

2008-10-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

Dirty Steve pays tribute to Albuquerque Veterans, HAND SALUTE!

Dirty Steve ready to ride shotgun with the Air National Guard NM

El Jefe trying to sneak up on Dirty Steve... c'mon Jefe, he knows you're there!!!

El Jefe formally meets "Dirty Steve", Mikey looks on.

Dirty Steve attending the morning briefing at the SPA Annual meeting in Albuquerque, New Mexico while displaying his pride and SP shield! Huuaa!

Dirty Steve loses a coin challenge!

Dirty Steve salutes his operator buddies at the Albuquerque Veteran's Memorial.... Huaa! Dirty Steve proudly wearing his EST T-shirt, check out the detail of the EST patch. Go Steve Go!

"Dirty Steve"... On a mission...!

2008-10-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

"Dirty Steve" on the road to Albuquerque for the Annual Security Police Association Meeting.

That's right, I understand the slick operator will be in Albuquerque this week for the Annual SPA meeting. Several other members of this blog site will be there to provide some Close-in support to Dirty Steve. We hope to post some cool pics of the "world traveler" right here on this blogsite, very soon.

Stay tuned.

el jefe

Historical Photos AFSESF- Courtesy of Chief Lee Sexton (Ret)

2008-04-17T06:33:00.000-07:00

Special thanks to Chief Sexton (Ret), standing far right in the photo, who sent us some historical photos, include is the listing of Team Operators who were involved with the AFSESF at the SP Academy, circa 1978-1979. Chief Sexton is responsible for developing the T.N.T. and E.S.T. course curriculum and ESBI D-11, that was taught at the SP Academy from 1978-1992. The AFSESF received advanced training from various sources including "Delta" on explosive entry and the use of stun grenades. As you may know, the EST patch you see on this site is dedicated to this instructor cadre for their "first Operational" mission called "Operation Eagle", the responsibility of securing the Shah of Iran while he was seeking refuge and medical care in the United States after the Iranian Hostage Crisis. The mission ended with their escort mission to Panama, where the Shah of Iran was granted refuge. Personally to me, this photo symbolizes the committment to the Concept of Operations for Emergency Service Teams. Currently, the Air Force doesn't have a "school house" for EST, as most USAF installations who do support having teams, rely on the US Army SRT School or locally developed training.

Below, a young Lee Sexton, going through some training. Thanks Chief for sharing.

El Jefe

New Rules...

2008-01-21T20:43:00.000-08:00

Langley AFB Security Police Reunion

2008-01-07T20:21:00.000-08:00

This is the reunion we had over the summer, I am in that group standing Guardmount with my former mates... including four who are former Operators with the Langley EST. I have to say it was well worth the long drive to get there. Lucky for me I had a good friend in the nearby area give me shelter before and after the drive there. Thanks again Master Jedi Ed(waldo) for the support. I thought I'd take the time to post this, because I want to thank the Eagle Chapter of the Security Police Association out of D.C. and Virginia for putting the photos and article together and publishing it in their Eagle Chapter Newsletter. OOOORAH!

1* el jefe

You can click on the photo to enlarge it.

138th SFS Emergency Services Team Tulsa, Oklahoma ANGB

2007-12-09T12:25:00.000-08:00

Got these from one of the operators and trainer of the 138th SFS E.S.T. from the Oklahoma ANG out of Tulsa. Hopefully OneTrueDave will send us some history of the team so we can add it to ours.

Enjoy, 1*

El Jefe

EST Out Takes ---Proper Search...NOT!

2007-11-03T22:42:00.000-07:00

el jefe

E.S.T. Howard AFB, Panama - What we didn't know then...

2007-11-03T20:03:00.001-07:00

Another E.S.T. Video...Hoorah...

2007-11-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

Lackland E.S.T. Video Promo... Awesome!

2007-10-31T10:12:00.000-07:00

Thanks to TSgt Justin King for alerting us to this video on their website. We need a campaign to re-open the E.S.T. school at Lackland, bigger and better than anything the Army has! Post your comments on the blog. Thanks again to the Lackland Team for making this available, and thanks to the Air Force Audio/Visual people for making the film. Maybe they need a reality show like "Dallas SWAT"... they should call it ..."the final option!"

el jefe

"THE" Ultimate Coin Check...

2007-10-15T19:40:00.000-07:00

You just can't win this one... "Jimbo" has done the ULTIMATE COIN CHECK... can anyone top this? Jimbo has always, I mean, ALWAYS taken his E.S.T. missions seriously... TOP THIS!

Jimbo has tattoed the E.S.T. emblem on his chest! It looks damn sharp too!

I salute you JIMBO!

HOORAH!

Cool Video of Chinook picking up SEALS

2007-10-07T21:45:00.000-07:00

The Padawon attends the Air Force Security Police Association annual meeting in San Antonio

2007-10-07T21:05:00.000-07:00

Yes, the aprentice warrior was spotted in San Antonio across the street from the Alamo. He was practicing for his Master's test. Good luck!!

History of Emergency Service Teams

2007-10-05T10:57:00.000-07:00

Operators!
I found this article about USAF E.S.T. on the website for SpecWarNet.net
It is interesting to see how similar the history is from the one I printed up when I started this blog. Plus the article provides info on the AF Special Emergency Service Flight (AFSESF), which I could not remember. Enjoy your heritage!

AFSESF

60th Security Police Squadron Base SWAT Team

2007-09-29T21:08:00.000-07:00

"Operator Pin-Up Girl" Nominee for July 2007

2007-09-29T21:05:00.001-07:00

"RELOAD!"

"Operator Pin-Up Girl" Nominee for August 2007

2007-09-29T21:02:00.001-07:00

Boom Boom!!

"Operator Pin-Up Girl" Nominee for September 2007

2007-09-29T20:54:00.001-07:00

Who wants to Belay????

"Operator Pin Up Girl" Of The Week - Break Girl

2007-09-29T20:45:00.000-07:00

Izabela
Check out Izabela, she is an absolute beauty from Miami. She likes to hang at the beach and guys with nice teeth and and a good tan. Now give her a rating to let her know how hot she is!

AGE: 20
LOCATION: Miami, FL - United States
VIEWED: 160,941
OCCUPATION: Student
URL:
FAVORITE CLIP: Big Guy Ruins Summer

See More Break "Girl of the Day" at the link below:

Break Girls

"Operator Pin Up Girl" Nominee - Israeli Women Lead the Way!

2007-09-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

E.S.T. Train at Yokota AB To Keep our Schools Safe!

2007-09-24T05:41:00.000-07:00

The picture above shows an E.S.T. member poised and ready to take on the threat in a "School Shooting" scenario.

To see the entire video click on "E.S.T. Reacts"
Video Courtesy of Air Force Link News

E.S.T. Patch

2007-09-19T19:43:00.000-07:00

Does anyone know what Air Force Security Forces unit used this patch? The patch was sent to me by Lima 1, and given to him by a friend named Dominc Quinn, who was on several E.S.T.s

Keep the patches coming Operators!

el jefe

Move Your Ass!

2007-09-18T14:46:00.000-07:00

http://ia341241.us.archive.org/0/items/FinalOptionsoundtrackcomeonman_moveyourass/comeonmanmoveyourassaudio_4.mp3

E.S.T. OUT TAKES...

2007-09-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

YEAH...we mess up... but usually it's in training and not during our actual missions... here is one sure-fire way to secure your prisioner when you are seaching him...

Yeah that's right, stick the barrel of your weapon upside his ass... works everytime...

We are the government, we are here to help you

2007-09-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

Vamos a la playa

Have you seen this man?

2007-09-15T20:00:00.001-07:00

I got my hands in my pockets

Hey guess what the latest tropical storm is named?

2007-09-15T17:55:00.000-07:00

Obviously, since this is not the Weather Channel, there must be a reason that I am asking what the current tropical storm is named.

Well without further delay, the tropical storm is named

INGRID

I guess it will either be a blood sucker, or a "hell of a murderous storm."

Or, will it ruin everything?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ED BENNETT (AKA EDWALDO RAPIDO)

2007-09-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

OUR OWN FAST FAB EDWALDO... COVERING HIS TEAM... 'NUFF SAID.

IT ALWAYS GOOD TO REMEMBER THOSE WE HAVE HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF SERVING WITH...BACK IN THE DAY... TODAY IS ED BENNETT'S BIRTHDAY... AND AS WE'VE ESTABLISHED THIS TRADITION TO PUT IT ...WELL...OUT THERE... here it is!

FELIZ BIRTHDAY...EDWALDO...!!! OK LOOKS LIKE WE OWE YOU SOME SCOTCH AND A FEW DECENT CIGARS... BUT LIKE THE MIKESTER SAID... IN PERSONA!!!
HERE IS ED ...IN PANAMA WITH US... WONDERING "WHAT THE HECK AM I DOING ON THIS ROPE?" MIKE AND I HAVE DISCUSSED HOW MUCH YOU OWE US AND WELL...
YOU STILL OWE US!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY FRIEND, SEE YOU SOON. PADAWON!

I think we actually got a "thumbs up" from Fast Eddie.... check it out!

EL JEFE

"WHO LOVES YOU BABY!"

Fun at Camp Hovey

2007-09-05T19:54:00.000-07:00

The Army has all the neat stuff!

T.N.T. (TACTICAL NEUTRALIZATION TEAMS) - THE BEGINNING...

2007-09-01T23:03:00.000-07:00

FOUND THIS RECENTLY, JUST HAD THE COVER PAGE TO THE ARTICLE ABOUT THE VERY BEGINNINGS OF E.S.T.

Remember Doing Team Lifts??

2007-09-01T21:19:00.000-07:00

WHAT WERE WE THINKING??? THAT WE CAN JUMP AT A SINGLE BOUND? I believe in the above pictures, A1C Rojas and Sgt Humston, the 437th SPS, Charleston AFB E.S.T. are performing a team lift, I can't see or remember who was on the opposite side. Where are you guys??
Here we are waiting (above) for our ride...NOT!

Well... it paid off actually...

Howard AFB, Panama, 24th Security Forces Squadron Official Photo...

2007-08-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

Found this with some old paper work... actually someone from Panama sent it to me...saying they found it in a desk drawer with some of my old paperwork??? There are some "Operators" in this picture... Can you name them?? Is that LIMA 1?? Eddie??? Click on the picture to see it enlarged. What kind of a "spider crawl" is that??? What's up with the band??? Someone give me some feedback quick!!! El Jefe

Bureau of Prisons Special Operations Response Team (SORT)

2007-08-16T23:22:00.001-07:00

click here for further info on SORT

These photos were sent in by Gilbert (aka LIMA 1) Garcia, depicting his training days with the SORT that he was assigned to; these were taken at a "great place" to train in Virginia. Well... at least most of us think it's a great place to train. In the photo below... yea...that's Lima 1 in the middle. Gil gave over 6 1/2 years to the teams... hoorah Gilberto! And thanks for sending the pics and you know how much "pride" I feel when I see you in "black!" You've done good!

As quick background on Lima 1, he served with the USAF in Security Forces, assigned to Howard AFB, Panama, where he worked as an SP Investigator and SP Liaison... '82-'91. Gilbert was involved in many of the pre and post war efforts for Operation Just Cause. The irony of this all, is that he once told me he just didn't see himself doing E.S.T. ops... "wrong!!" Gilberto! Operator!

Gil currently is still serving... a Lieutenant, as Emergency Preparedness Officer, DOJ, FBOP.You make us proud!
El Jefe...
call sign "Viper"

Happy Birthday HUGHDOG !!!

2007-08-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

Jeff "Hughdog" Hughey getting ready to "kit up" for some training with the Langley E.S.T. taken I believe in 1994 or 1995. Happy Birthday Hughdog!
Dig those crazy sweatshirts!! I still have mine. Have a Happy Birthday! 1*

el jefe

2007 Annual Meeting Air Force Security Police Association - Welcome!

2007-08-04T22:45:00.000-07:00

Security Police Association - Welcome!

Above is the link to the AFSPA Online website. It has info on the upcoming Annual Meeting.

Hotel reservations are being taken now... and site states registration packets are coming soon.

WHY HAVEN'T YOU JOINED TODAY???

THE ASSOCIATION CHALLENGE COIN IS WORTH THE COST OF MEMBERSHIP!!! ONE OF A KIND!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I AM NOT A RECRUITER FOR THE ASSOCIATION, BUT WE OWE IT TO OUR SECURITY FORCES TROOPS SERVING IN HARM'S WAY TO PRESERVE THEIR AIR POLICE/SECURITY POLICE/SECURITY FORCES HERITAGE !

"El Jefe"

Video Clip E.S.T. Training Session

2007-07-28T17:17:00.000-07:00

Short E.S.T. clip from training session at LAFB, VA. around 1995.

Security Forces Coin

2007-07-28T16:16:00.000-07:00

This was sent to me by Mark (Jimbo) Myles... the military challenge coin web site is selling them... there is a link posted on this blog...go find it... NICE COIN! This is same site that has those great E.S.T. coins...they are going fast!!!!

EL JEFE

More E.S.T. Pics From Panama !!

2007-07-28T15:48:00.000-07:00

Great Training Moments...

Thanks to Bob Mussyal (pictured above) for posting these great black & white photos from "good training" times at Howard AFB, Republic of Panama, with our E.S.T. - Thanks Bob!

El Jefe looking at how a chopper is set up inside for rappel anchors... damn I actually remember doing this... The Army MPs that showed us were a great bunch of operators (SRT). The Chopper pilots were cool and did us right with all the hovering they did for the entire day.

At Fort Clayton....what a blast that was!How many can you name in this picture... There's a Drigg...there's a Mike... a Brit, a John and who else??? Post your answer on the blog!
Here's Bob at Sniper School!!!! Orrah!!!!!!!

THIS WAS A SPECIAL TIME ...for many of us while we were at Howard AFB... what a great picture...Thanks again Bob!

POST YOUR PICS HERE!!!

We are now RSS Capable...more to come.

2007-07-25T20:23:00.000-07:00

That's right now you can subscribe to this blog using RSS (Really Simple Syndication), just scroll down a bit and look at the right hand edge of the blog and look for the RSS Animator. You can subscribe to this blog just follow the instructions when you click on "Subcribe Now" with the little red "sound" icon. Anytime there is an update to the blog you will be automatically notified of the update, you can use it with Yahoomail, Outlook and any RSS reader including the latest version of Internet Explorer, Opera or Firefox browsers.

In the future I will be trying to post some podcasts hopefully some old war stories or interesting news about the career field and how E.S.T. is developing in the Security Forces, or just "straight talk"...

1*

el jefe

Coins of Panama Web Site - Challenge Coins

2007-07-25T08:26:00.001-07:00

Hola Everyone...Mark Myles (aka JIMBO), who is now Assistant County Counsel for San Joaquin County, in Stockton, California and a former USAF Security Forces NCO, a professional all the way; a security forces trainining instructor and former E.S.T. Trainer and Field Supervisor when he was stationed at Howard AFB, Republic of Panama, sent me this link and asked me to post it here.

So here it is...

http://www.coins-of-panama.com/challenge.html

I've looked at the site and you really have to see it for yourself, some very rare military challenge coins and other rare Panama Canal Zone items.

Thanks Jimbo.

This is Jimbo in his prime leading the guys at Howard AFB, Panama

Security Forces Memorial - A Tribute to Defenders of the Force

2007-07-18T09:20:00.000-07:00

I ran across this powerpoint on line on You Tube... I did like the history that is covered in the powerpoint and have to give credit to the folks who put this together. Thanks.

Here's the link to the presentation:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUa_JmGO05s

Here's another I liked from Brocknation - some very creative spots on You Tube. Enjoy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VwIi8I5NVnc

This is an Air Force Link Video about EST in Turkey.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBPeCqy-Ao0

This one was labeled "613th video"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5xhGWFJu4I

Security Forces during Blackhawk training:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQDGMfe2w6Y

A final link to a piece on the 820th SFS:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDuz3qxCWjk

There is an increasing number of videos that can be found on You Tube concerning USAF Security Forces and specialty teams like EST, Ravens, 820th etc. Some of the footage is great to see and it is enjoyable to see this increase by members of the Security Forces who have an interest in recording history.

Editor

El Jefe

Lackland SWAT - Air Force Lackland Team comes through...

2007-05-23T20:26:00.000-07:00

After reading that article about their successful attendance at a SWAT competition and seeing their team photos on Air Force Link... we had to get a copy of that patch...

Thanks to TSgt Justin King, of the 37th SFS/S3T and a member of the EST that competed in the Texas SWAT competition, we also received a copy of their logo ... and we thank you!

After several dozen long distance phone calls, after talking to the "desk", the orderly room and the base locator (automated that is...), we found TSgt King. He was very kind in quickly sending their logo image to share on this blog.

Thank you...and keep training! I think we will be getting a photo of their patch for the blog ...thanks again to TSgt King. Orrah!

Lackland EST takes 1st Place in Southeast Texas SWAT competition

2007-05-16T19:24:00.000-07:00

As it appears on Air Force Link...

Go ahead, make my day

Staff Sgt. Bryan Garcia (left) and Master Sgt. Ronald Thompson cover each other during a training session May 4 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. They are members of the 37th Training Wing's Emergency Services Team and recently competed in the Southeast Texas SWAT competition, taking first place. (U.S. Air Force photo/Robbin Cresswell)
(Courtesy of Air Force Link )
Click on the link above to view the "Week in Photos and Portraits in Courage" on the Air Force Link website.

Go ahead, make my day
Members of the 37th Training Wing's Emergency Services Team use a team lift technique to enter a target building during training May 4 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. A five-man team consisting of 1st Lt. Stephen Addington, Senior Master Sgt. Matt Harmatuk, Tech. Sgt. Jason Attinger, Tech. Sgt. Justin King and Senior Airman Andrew Caro competed in the Southeast Texas SWAT Competition April 24 in Beaumont, Texas. Lackland AFB's team took a first place in the competition. (U.S. Air Force photo/Robbin Cresswell)

Go ahead, make my day
After rappelling off the outer wall, 1st Lt. Stephen Addington swings through the open window of a target building during Emergency Services Team training May 4 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Lieutenant Addington was on the team that competed at the Southeast Texas SWAT Competition April 24 in Beaumont, Texas. The Lackland AFB team placed first in the competition. (U.S. Air Force photo/Robbin Cresswell)

Commentary:

This is great to see that the teams are actively involved in training on installations and are out there competing with their civilian counterparts. Is it time to reconsider opening another EST school for Security Forces? Isn't there enough expertise within Security Forces to mount another school, surely it would keep our Security Forces on the cutting edge, not only on new technology, tactics and shooting skills, but also on survival tactics for police. What do you think? Post your comments here. Remember in order to comment on this blog, you must join blogger.

Editor

El Jefe

A Final Salute and Farewell to our Friend and Emergency Service Team Mate

2007-04-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

Sgt Cammie Michael Elliott was interred in the church cemetery of his beloved Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church on Highway 92 in Russell Springs, Kentucky, where Cammie was known as the "Candyman" for handing out candy to the parishioners and children who attended Sunday services.

I traveled recently to Russell Springs, Kentucky to bid a final salute and farewell to our former team mate and friend, Sgt Cammie Michael Elliott. (Above: a picture at his gravesite, where I placed a Security Forces Beret, which was given to his surviving widow, Mrs. Patsy Elliott and his surviving daughter, Miranda Elliott) God Bless you, Cammie.

His surviving widow, Patsy told me that this was his favorite bookmark in his bible,

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

2 Timothy 4:7

He served his country with honor and distinction and was one of the pioneers who helped train Charleston AFB, S.C. E.S.T. members. I only know of one "call-out" at Charleston back in those years. We were recalled to response to a Cuban refugee who had broaded a jetliner at Charleston Airport and demanded to be flown to Cuba and supposely had a liquid explosive (later determined to be gasoline). Well, we did respond but by the time we were headed to our vehicles, the incident was over. A local deputy basically walked onto the airliner and basically apprehended the suspect. End of incident, end of our recall.

Cammie was part of that recall and I remember how fast Cammie had issued weapons (served as a squadron armorer and E.S.T. leader) and had "geared up" for the movement to the airport. We had some IA plans and were ready to assess the sit based on the threat. Well... of course we never got the opportunity to deploy so that was our first recall ... after the incident, Cammie was charged with reviewing our recall plan and our actions up to tranport. We came away with several "lessons learned."

Cammie was our armorer, meaning he took care of the weapons assigned to E.S.T. members and we never had to worry about our weapons being ready for anything. Thanks to Cammie.

We'll see you at the Main Gate, "Cammie"... get ready for some push-ups!

Former Emergency Service Team Leader is Remembered...

2007-03-26T12:29:00.000-07:00

Standing in the last row, on the right, with his team,

Sergeant "Cammie" Michael Elliott

March 5, 1957- March 21, 2007

IN MEMORIUM

"Cammie"Michael Elliott

"REST IN PEACE, PEACEKEEPER"

Cammie was my friend, we worked together at Charleston Air Force Base, South Carolina, assigned to the 437th Security Police Squadron, and it was during that time in the late 70's and early 80's that we forged a bond of friendship that I will never forget.

"Cammie" passed away last week on March 21st, after a courageous battle with cancer, he is survived by his wonderful wife, Patsy and his wonderful daughter, Miranda and all his life-long friends.

If there is one thing I do remember about "Cammie", he was thoughtful, had a heart of gold, and cared... really cared. He is one of the "good guys" and he will be missed.

Cammie was with what was then known as, Security Police (currently Security Forces), as a security specialist, who loved working as the squadron armorer and volunteering his free time to train E.S.T. members. Just look at the pictures below, they speak louder than what I can write here about him. (To see an enlarged version of the photos, double click on them)

Look at the reflection in his mirrored glasses, getting ready for a deployment exercise; by the way, those mirrored glasses, a trademark with him in those days, I don't know if there was ever a day when he didn't have them on.

Standing in the picture above, back row, third from the left: Look at that big smile, after completing a whole week of E.S.T. training to qualify for the team... "Robert Oh... (instead of calling me Roberto)... time for some Waskey and coke"...
"Cammie" graduated from the E.S.T. school and here we are getting ready to train some future "Operators" in the art of rappelling. His Kentucky upbringing only added to his talent as a trainer.
There he is, standing behind me, involved in river crossing training with our team members and our 44-man ABGD team, getting ready for a MajCom exercise, "Cammie" was always there, being a "team player" and lending his expertise to those who sought it.

SECURITY FORCE CREED: I am a security force member. I hold allegiance to my country, devotion to duty, and personal integrity above all. I wear my shield of authority with dignity and restraint, and promote by example high standards of conduct, appearance, courtesy, and performance. I seek no favor because of my position. I perform my duties in a firm, courteous, and impartial manner, irrespective of a person's color, race, religion, national origin, or sex. I strive to merit the respect of my fellow airmen and all with whom I come in contact.

History of the Security Police Prayer below, click to enlarge:

JOINT AIR FORCE E.S.T. AND U.S. ARMY S.R.T. TRAINING

2007-03-12T14:05:00.000-07:00

JOINT TRAINING BETWEEN THE SERVICES... (click the photos to enlarge)

Teams from Langley AFB E.S.T. and U.S. Army Ft. Eustis S.R.T. in joint training, a joint agreement between the local Army and Air Force Commanders to provide support during high risk situations. A concept supported by our local area trainers at the time, the F.B.I.

Joint E.S.T. and S.R.T. training - Helicopter Rappelling in Panama 1988.

How many did we do? The Demos just keep on coming!

2007-03-11T19:19:00.000-07:00

EST Operators do a Bus Take-Down for Honduran General

PSO demonstration for the Honduran Air Force Security Police at Howard AFB, Panama

==
Southern Command Network TV broadcast on Emergency Service Team with 24th SPS

-----------

Taking down a C130 while SouthCom CINC and Foreign Military Observers look on

----------------
SCN broadcast featuring EST at Howard AFB -- --- Rappelling from the base theater

------

Sniper team on fire truck -- ---------- EST Operators dressed as fire fighters

A place to pick up this coin and more...check it out. Click on the Logo below.

2007-03-07T14:50:00.000-08:00

There are only less than one hundred left... and we are buying them fast. Thanks again, Adam.

Greetings From Former E.S.T. members in San Antonio Texas

2007-03-06T13:02:00.000-08:00

SERVING IN IRAQ - One of our former EST Brothers...

2007-02-21T21:36:00.000-08:00

MSgt Lundy present day above left; Sergeant Lundy circa 1985-86 above right
SSgt Luviano’s re-enlistement ceremony over here in Kirkuk From left to right: MSgt Lundy, SSgt Luviano, TSgt Sauvage, MSgt Sandley Photo courtesy: SSgt Clint (Sparky) Parks
Found this picture on the Safeside Association website of MSgt Steven Lundy serving in Iraq with his teammates from the 822nd Security Forces Moody AFB, Georgia

MSgt Lundy was an active member of the 24th SPS Emergency Service Team, Howard AFB, Panama - "keep the edge" Steve...oorah!

Thanks to all the members of the 822nd SFS who are serving in Iraq and around the world!

EST Global Reach - We are everywhere - San Antonio, Texas, Howard AFB, Panama, OSAN AB KOREA EST

2007-02-21T20:23:00.000-08:00

Team Demos... Oh yea... we did those too.

Above you can see the author doing a spider crawl at the Base Theater at Howard AFB, Panama. Below the team prepares to assault the base theater for a demo that was presented to Argentinian Army Special Forces who were interested in Tactics for Emergency Service Teams. Did we do demos... oh yeah... for the Argentinians, the Peruvians, the Hondurans, well it was good training.

Osan E.S.T.
Self Explained... NYPD ESU

MSgt Edgar Castro, Retired, during his re-enlistment ceremony at Howard AFB, Panama, by LtCol Coleman, several of the SP liaison and SP investigators from Eddie's office are witnessing the ceremony. If you look closely at Eddie's uniform there appears to be lettering on the back... my guess E.S.T. para siempre! The young man standing next to LtCol Coleman is Gilbert Garcia... I remember once Gilberto telling me he could never see himself doing the E.S.T. thing... yet after leaving the Air Force, he ended up working on the Federal Prison S.O.R.T. teams... go Gilbert!!! Orrah!

He is Edgar again, now works in San Antonio, Texas for a local college as the Law Enforcement Officer for Campus Police, a State Agency.

Mike Tsung and Edgar Castro... E.S.T. buddies para siempre!

Neal... our favorite Brit. on our team in Panama, the ONLY answer he knew is ...on the board.

Where the hell are ya?

Mike Tsung reenlists in his EST Uniform, sworn in by Major John Costello, 24SPS Commander then ...at Howard AFB, Panama. Currently retired, Colonel Costello was a great commander and supporter of Emergency Service Teams.

Mike Tsung coming down inverted

Group photo of OSAN EST included medic and EOD team members.

Our Patch and Team Page - Bring me your Patches and Team Pictures and such...

2007-02-21T19:18:00.000-08:00

Langley EST on the top left and right above and Osan EST in a CAT role from Osan AB, Korea on the bottom center

Above Howard AFB (Panama) EST Team Picture and drilling on aircraft at Albrook AFS

Above: Langley AFB EST going through some CQB drills

U.S. Federal Prison SORT Team

We want to use this page for posting patches, badges, team pictures and other unauthorized and authorized items we wore as members of SWAT, CT or other special ops teams in the military or non-military areas.

FIRST PATCH TO DISPLAY:
This patch was designed by Gary Paul Johnston - this symbol has become a universal police and SWAT survival symbol - One Ass To Risk.

Had to include our unit patch, 24th Security Police Squadorn, Howard AFB, Panama

Howard AFB Emergency Service Team Patch

Patches used before, during and after Operation Just Cause in Panama '89

51st Security Police Squardron Emergency Service Team Patch, Osan AB, South Korea

Uruguay Air Force GOE patch above and below are pictures of the team that we trained.

USAF Emergency Service Teams (E.S.T.) Past and Present

2007-02-14T19:38:00.000-08:00

MORE PHOTOS here... http://viper.photos.military.com/

51st Security Police Squadron, South Korea, E.S.T. Coin and Patch

Howard AFB E.S.T. Patch, the patch honors the 1st operational mission by the E.S.T. Cadre from Lackland AFB, known as Operation Eagle. The Eagle in the center honors that mission, the triangle of preparation, lists outside of the triangle the three E.S.T. tenants of training; mental/physical conditioning, tactics and shooting skills.

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Maybe it was time to put up a blog site dedicated to the early days of training the first Emergency Service Teams. The history of the teams start with the T.N.T. (Tactical Neutralization Team) Teams. I am not sure how accurate my information really is; but the push to have SWAT teams in the Air Force started with a small cadre of Security Police Instructors who attended the Basic F.B.I. SWAT course, I believe led by a then TSgt Sexton (later Chief Sexton). They returned to Lackland AFB in Texas to plan, organize and implement policy and training doctrine that eventually led to the Emergency Service Teams becoming viable Special Operations Units tasked with high risk operations. There was an initial written policy covering how to equip, train and employ the T.N.T. teams; eventually an Air Force Regulation was written to change the name to Emergency Service Team including specific guidelines for employment of the teams. If my memory serves me correctly, the Lackland Team was also tasked with providing protection for the the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi when he was seeking medical treatment before his death. On 22 October 1979 President Jimmy Carter allowed the Shah to make a brief stopover in the United States to undergo medical treatment. I believe the tasking was called Operation Eagle. The instructor cadre, I believe also tested new and innovative tactics and equipment at the Security Police Academy, which led to a short lived concept of having a deployable EST team, they had a name but I can't remember specifically what they were called at that time.

From T.N.T. to E.S.T. the transformation was fast and non-stop and it started with this small cadre of Security Police at Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas. The initial training started at Camp Bullis and eventually was moved to Lackland AFB.

I want to have this blog document this history. If you were ever on an EST or TNT or was part of the initial planning cadre to start the training at Camp Bullis; then this blog is about you, for you and the men and women that made up the Emergency Service Teams of the United States Air Force Security Police/Security Forces, past and present.

Above: On the range qualifying our team snipers at Howard AFB, Panama

I, like many others before me and after... trained E.S.T.s for 15 years. My first experience with becoming aware with SWAT teams and Special Operation Forces was with my first assignment overseas. While stationed in Germany in 1977, I attended an F.B.I. SOAR's (Special Operations And Research) briefing on terrorism. In fact it was held during the week that the now famous and well known GSG-9 assault on Lufthansa airliner flight 181,that had been hijacked to Somalia.

It was during this briefing that we were introduced to then Col. Ulrich K. Wegener (Ret. Gen.), the founder of Germany's Special Operation Unit Grenzschutzgruppe 9 (GSG-9).

click on emblem above for more on GSG-9
Where he personally went over the mission in some detail without covering what was then considered "classified" information among the military attending the course.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6twy2FQDthI

This briefing initially sparked my interest in special operation units especially the concept of being a member of a military SWAT team.

TEAM PHOTOS:

Above: Langley AFB, VA (F.B.I. Trained) USAF E.S.T. 1990-1995, Trainers: SA Bud Evans, Norfolk F.B.I. (Retired) and SSgt Mark Anderson, E.S.T. Field Supervisor (Retired MSgt).

Above and Below: Author on point with the Langley AFB EST during field training with the F.B.I.

Eventually the Langley EST responds to a actual situation at Ft. Eustis, Virginia

Above: Langley AFB E.S.T. preparing to board a bus during field training.

Above: Howard AFB, Republic of Panama, E.S.T. 1983-1989, TSgt Roberto Bonefont, Sr., Field Supervisor, Assistant Field Supervisor, TSgt Michael Tsung.

Mike not only provided the concept design but provided the funding for the coins and every member received a coin. Since then, Mike has given to coin out only to those deserving. In the picture below of Mike, he is also modeling the Howard AFB E.S.T. Flash©, also provided by Mike, from concept to funding. The flash design© was based on a design concept© developed by the author while stationed at Charleston AFB, S.C. The actual design was based on the three E.S.T. tenants of training, Mental/Physical Conditioning, Tactics and Shooting Skills, see the HAFB E.S.T. Coin and the full color patch below.

Above: Mike Tsung

Above: Rappeling, using the sky-genie at Howard AFB, Republic of Panama

Above: 2nd Team I assisted in training at Howard AFB, Republic of Panama, the Field Supervisor I replaced was SSgt James Anderson.

Above: Course Completion Day, Charleston AFB, S.C.

After graduating from the Air Force E.S.T. course in Sept. 1980, I returned to Charleston AFB, S.C. to organize and train a new team. There were originally ten of us.

1st team trained under "Tactics For Emergency Service Teams Course" curriculum material, 1980, SSgt Roberto Bonefont, Sr., E.S.T. Field Supervisor. In this picture, our OIC, Capt Tompkins, our LE Training NCO, SSgt Flannery, who assisted and supported team training for the teams.

Above: Charleston AFB, S.C. E.S.T. getting ready for training.

This picture above was one of the few training opportunities we had at Charleston AFB, we got support to meet quarterly to qualify and train in high risk operations. Back then, that was a blessing for training. So whenever we could, we trained.

Above: Charleston AFB E.S.T. takes a knee during a break in training.

Above: Charleston AFB E.S.T. practicing movement...

Above: Charleston AFB E.S.T. practicing lifts.

TASKED WITH A VARIETY OF MISSIONS - BELOW ARE SOME PICTURES OF ASSIGNMENTS THAT INCLUDED EVERYTHING FROM STATE DEPARTMENT PROTECTION TO PRESIDENTIAL PROTECTION, FROM AIRCRAFT ASSAULTS TO RIOT CONTROL OPERATIONS

Protecting, then Vice-President George Bush, notice the unique flashes on the berets, they were actually authorized for wear, by our then Base Commander, Colonel Neff, Mike Tsung was kind enough to remind me that they were authorized.

On the firing line, firing Uzi submachine guns, while training with the Bureau of Diplomatic Security, State Department, Republic of Panama.

On the firing range at Howard AFB, Panama, putting new members through the paces, stress course of fire, etc.

Practicing riot control, EST's were used as apprehension teams.

Our field exercises were sometimes too realistic, plenty of two by heavies during this field exercise.

E.S.T. Training goes South!

Perhaps the only Air Force EST Mobile Training Team to teach in South America?

As part of a Mobile Training Team (MTT) to Uruguay, we trained their Air Force GOE (Grupo de Operaciones Especial/Special Operations Group) on Tactics for Emergency Service Teams, the bilingual team was selected from various bases, the team was an all NCO team. The GOE, a select group of Air Force Infantry men and qualified airborne soldiers were strictly business and looking for added strategies to help combat the rise in criminal and terrorist activity in their country. We provided them with ample challenge and plenty of practice to get the job done. Photos below document that training.

Author Above with the E.S.T. Mobile Training Team in Uruguay training the Air Force GOE, visible team members, l to r: Author, TSgt Myles, SSgt Rivas, and MSgt Archbold.

Author on the firing range during a stress course of fire.

Members of the GOE