Top cop witnesses 93rd AGOW, 23rd SFS abilities firsthand

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nicholas Benroth
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Brig. Gen. Jimmy McMillian, also known as the Air Force's "top cop," is in command of more than 30,000 security forces defenders at locations worldwide. He recently embarked on a trip to Moody Air Force Base, Ga., to witness the mission of the 93rd Air Ground Operation Wing and the 23rd Security Forces Squadron, Feb. 11.

General McMillian, director of security forces, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, ensures security forces members are properly trained, equipped and ready to support contingency and exercise plans worldwide.

"The goal of the Moody visit was to review training and visit the people who perform the mission," said General McMillian. "I wanted to get a grasp on how well the security forces Airmen are doing and how I can help them."

During his two-day visit, General McMillian divided his time between the 93rd AGOW and the 23rd SFS in order to gain a better understanding how his people were performing at Moody.

"I love to dialogue with the Airmen because they provide me critical insight into mission requirements," he said. "I want to ensure my defenders are well taken care of and have the right resources to succeed. These visits are important because they afford me an opportunity to have 'eye ball' contact while delivering my message."

General McMillian had the chance to witness the 820th Base Defense Group in action as they performed a demonstration for the director at the military operations in urban terrain training village here.

"This is my first time with the 820th BDG so it definitely gave me a better idea of the special mission they perform," General McMillian said. "Whether it is a humanitarian mission or responding to a natural disaster, the members are always on call and ready."

Two of the individuals who spent time with the general were Capt. Justin Secrest, 23rd SFS commander and Col. Randall Richert, 820th Base Defense Group commander.

"It's great when leadership gets out and has contact with their units," said Captain Secrest. "In some jobs such as security forces, you may work nights, weekends and holidays, and it's easy to feel isolated. Having a general officer speak to the Airmen is great because it helps them realize how important their work is and that they do have support."

General McMillian had an opportunity to interact with most of the 23rd SFS, including a tour of the military working dog kennels.

"Military working dogs are a very critical component to both the Air Force and Department of Defense missions," the general said. "We must ensure they are always prepared to answer their nation's call."

He also met with security forces members who were working security posts around base and got their opinions on their job and what he could do to make it better.

"What is really noticeable about the Airmen working on base is their synergy and energy," he said. "Our security forces Airmen volunteer to go in harm's way, for the defense of our nation and against any adversary. They do this both at home station and abroad."

The general wrapped up his tour of Moody with an 'all call' which comprised of the 820th BDG and its squadrons.

"I have been very impressed with the leadership and how engaged they are at taking care of their Airmen and families," General McMillian said. "Our security forces leaders are well prepared to lead our Airmen in a dynamic environment with many daunting challenges."

The general foresees the future of security forces as a very dynamic partnership between the different services and also sees counter-insurgency missions growing in the future.