ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga -- ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. – In an era marked by evolving and ever increasing security threats, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, remains committed to protecting its personnel, assets and missions through robust anti-terrorism measures. A dedicated team of anti-terrorism response professionals works behind the scenes to implement security measures and fosters a culture of vigilance across the base, aligned with Air Force policy and national directives.
This culture is enforced through a collaborative team led by members of the 78th Security Forces Squadron and Air Force Office of Special Investigations. This team integrates and augments with various specialists, including intelligence analysts, civil engineers, firefighters, communications specialists and operations personnel to deter, detect, and defend against any and all incursions.
Anti-terrorism response personnel are responsible for a multifaceted approach to security. Their duties include conducting random anti-terrorism measures, which involve unpredictable security actions designed to deter and detect potential threats. These measures range from increased ID card checks and vehicle inspections at entry control points, to scheduled and random military working dog sweeps of facilities and patrols of high-traffic areas.
"Most of the spot checks could be anything from doing 100% ID checks, making sure all the fire signatures are valid, and checking for unattended or suspicious packages in parking lots, dumpsters and near vending machines," said Staff Sgt. Ryan Cutler, 78th Security Forces Squadron electronic security systems noncommissioned officer in charge.
In addition to proactive measures, ATR personnel play a crucial role in coordinating responses to security incidents. Working closely with the Base Defense Operations Center, Security Forces and other agencies ensure swift and effective action in the event of a gate runner, suspicious package or other security concern. This coordinated response includes establishing communication channels with local law enforcement and emergency services, if needed. This response planning incorporates the Incident Command System to manage incidents by defining clear roles and responsibilities and facilitating communication and coordination among different teams and agencies, which also mirrors what is utilized outside the installation in case the base needs to partner with civilian, city, state or other federal agencies.
The 78th Air Base Wing Command Post is a crucial component of Robins AFB's incident management, serving as a central hub for alerting, directing, executing, and reporting during emergencies for effective management.
Additionally, ATR personnel are responsible for implementing security procedures according to Force Protection conditions, which dictate the security posture of the base based on current threat levels. As the FPCON increases from Normal, Alpha, Bravo, Charlie or Delta, so do security measures, including personnel, patrols, vehicle checks and scrutiny of those requesting base access. This aligns with the Air Force's risk management approach, which includes threat assessments, vulnerability assessments and risk assessments to prioritize resources.
Although Air Force commanders appoint unit anti-terrorism representatives who are trained by the Anti-Terrorism/Force protection office on vulnerability assessment and suspicious activity reporting, base security is not solely the responsibility of dedicated personnel. Every Team Robins member, both military and civilian, plays a critical role in maintaining a secure environment.
"Even though they’re not security forces or law enforcement, they can still prevent something," said Cutler. "If they see something, say something. If something seems odd or out of place, call BDOC and have them send a patrol over to investigate."
Simple actions, such as being aware of surroundings, reporting suspicious activity and challenging unidentified individuals in restricted areas, can significantly contribute to overall base security. This reflects the Air Force's emphasis on training and awareness.
Personnel are also reminded to be cautious about what information they share online and to be mindful of potential surveillance. The AT/FP office also monitors and gives recommendations for mass gatherings of Department of Defense personnel on and off base, ensuring unit representatives assist their unit deployment managers and supervisors in updating personnel on travel restrictions for official and leisure travel, and teach threat awareness information via websites or classroom training. These efforts are regularly reviewed and improved based on lessons learned and changes in the threat environment.
In the event of a nearby security threat, personnel are advised to stay calm, be safe and report any and all details to Robins AFB BDOC at (478) 926-2187.
Robins AFB prioritizes anti-terrorism efforts to protect personnel and maintain a secure environment. Base officials integrate AT programs into operations and contingency plans, allocating resources to eliminate vulnerabilities and relying on the vigilance of all Team Robins personnel to ensure Robins AFB remains a resilient installation in the face of ongoing terrorism threats, while balancing security measures with the need to maintain operational effectiveness.
"The bad guys only have to be right once. We have to be right all the time," Cutler said.