Travis security forces MWD handler keeps deployed base secure in Southwest Asia

Published Aug. 11, 2010
By Master Sgt. Scott T. Sturkol
Air Mobility Command Public Affairs

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- Staff Sgt. Lino Estacion is a military dog handler deployed with the 386th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron at a non-disclosed base here.

Sergeant Estacion is deployed from Air Mobility Command's 60th Security Forces Squadron at Travis Air Force Base, Calif.

Security forces Airmen like Sergeant Estacion receive a host of specialized training to complete their deployed mission. In doing his deployed job, Sergeant Valdez has worked flightline security, entry controlling to U.S.-controlled areas and base-wide patrols to name a few.

According to his Air Force job description, Sergeant Estacion is required to be able to lead, manage, supervise and perform force protection duties to include the use of deadly force to protect personnel and resources. He's also required to perform air base defense functions contributing to the force protection mission which includes controlling and securing terrain inside and outside military installations.

In addition to doing his job of defending personnel, equipment and resources from hostile forces, security forces members like Sergeant Estacion are capable of operating in various field environments and can perform individual and team patrol movements. Those movements include mounted and dismounted patrols, tactical drills, battle procedures, convoys, military operations other than war, antiterrorism duties and other special duties, according to the official job description.

A typical day at work for Sergeant Valdez might include wearing the latest in "battle rattle." This can include the latest in protective armor and combat-ready gear. Additionally, he'll carry a loaded M-4 rifle, and possibly an M-9 pistol, in carrying out his deployed duties.

Additionally, as a military working dog handler, Sergeant Valdez is qualified and experienced in in specialized functions for security forces weaponry, maintaining dog handling equipment, caring for and training military working dogs, and reacting to dog alerts.

His Air Force job description also shows security forces are able to operate communications equipment, vehicles, intrusion detection equipment, crew-served weapons and other special purpose equipment. As first responders, they can also apply self-aid buddy care and other life-saving procedures at accident and disaster scenes. With law enforcement, security forces are capable to apprehend and detain suspects, search persons and property, secures crime and incident scenes, and collect, seize and preserve evidence.

The 386th Air Expeditionary Wing has a diverse mission which canvases the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, according to the wing's public web page. The 386th AEW is the primary aerial hub for Operation Iraqi Freedom and provides airlift support for Operation Enduring Freedom and the Horn of Africa. The wing is comprised of the 386th Expeditionary Maintenance, Mission Support, Medical and Operations Groups and the 387th and 586th Air Expeditionary Groups.