Security Forces Squadron returns home from Iraq deployment

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Paul Duquette
  • 163d Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. --  Thirty 163d Security Forces Squadron members recently returned from a three month tour at Camp Sather, Baghdad International Airport (BIAP) in Iraq. 

While deployed, the service members were attached to 447th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, supporting Operation Iraq Freedom. Their role was to provide air base ground defense, which included armed physical security, protection of the base, and responding to or assisting with any emergency needs. 

Before deploying to the front lines, the guardsmen had to complete two weeks of refresher training at Eglin Air Force Base, Fl. 

"The course was designed to refine our field skills," said Staff Sgt. Michael Murphy, 163d Security Forces Squadron, "It also gave us an opportunity to work with SFS members from other units, prior to deploying to the AOR (area of responsibility)." 

During the deployment, the work shifts varied. Some SFS members had either day or night shift and worked 10-hour days, seven days a week, while others worked 12-hour shifts, three days on and one day off. 

"Like all deployments, you make the most of it," said SSgt. Murphy, "You go in with a positive attitude and try to make it better for everyone. I had the chance to bond with my teammates and strengthen friendships." 

"I feel we came together as a team and accomplished our directives," said SSgt. Murphy.
"We set a positive example for SFS teammates from other states to follow. I also feel confident now that when we're called to serve again we will perform more fluidly." 

During the deployment, 163 SFS members participated in the creation of Boy and Girl Scouts of Iraq; they also took part in another community relation program called Good Neighbor. 

Some 163 SFS members were assigned high level security details. The deployment was Staff Sgt. Andrew Musselman's second as a 163 SFS member; his highlight was working the presidential security detail for President George W. Bush's visit to Iraq. 

"I am extremely proud of the 163 SFS members who I deployed with," said SSgt. Musselman, "They are a very unique group of people who will do whatever it takes to get the job done. I believe, overall, we became a stronger unit because of the time we all spent together."