Defending the base

Airman 1st Class Tevin Mitchell, from the 72nd Security Forces Squadron, checks an ID at the Tinker Gate using the Defense Biometric Identification System scanner. Security Forces Airmen and civilian police officers use a variety of measures, including the Internet-based DBIDS, to ensure only authorized people and guests access the installation. These defenders also form the first line of defense at the gates, are often first responders to accidents near the gates and patrol inside the fence line and throughout the base to keep Tinker safe. The Security Forces Airmen adopted 12-hour shifts several months ago due to Air Force personnel reductions coupled with ongoing deployments of Security Forces personnel. The change allowed the squadron to continue to effectively protect the missions, assets, customers and assigned personnel on Tinker AFB despite the personnel challenges. (Air Force photo by Kelly White)