CHOLUTECA, Honduras -- Security forces members have a variety of jobs from checking ID cards at the gate in garrison to patrolling at forward operating bases overseas. A select few join the Base Defense Squadron (BDS), which specializes in force protection in austere environments.
Resolute Sentinel 21 utilized two BDS members with the 105th Airlift Wing, Stewart Air National Guard, New York, to provide protection for the deployed medics providing life-saving surgeries at Hospital del Sur.
“When we were tasked, we were instructed to provide security for the medical team deploying to Honduras,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Herbert Dubose, a force protection officer with the 105th AW, Stewart ANG, New York. “While we are used to limited resources on deployments, this was an opportunity to overcome new obstacles allowing us to enhance our skillsets and work in a location that is not typical to our standard rotations.”
Along with ensuring all members of the team are safe, the BDS members have been creating relationships with local first responders and military police members.
“It’s imperative for us to integrate with (host nation) first responders,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joann Ocampo, a force protection officer with the 105th AW, Stewart ANG, New York. “We all need to be on the same page to ensure the safety of our team.”
These partnerships progress the Resolute Sentinel 21 mission and build long-standing relationships between Honduras and the U.S.
“We’re in their territory which means they know more about local threats,” said Ocampo. “It’s also important to build these relationships and lean on each other to get the mission accomplished safely.”