New security forces facility streamlines warfighter's training

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Shaun Emery
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Looking to improve base security, base customers quality of life and quality of work, members of the 60th Security Forces Squadron began using their new combat arms training maintenance facility and armory Oct. 2.

The $3.2 million building consolidates the CATM classroom and the armory, which were previously housed in two separate buildings. Security Forces was using its main building for CATM classes and a 1960's-era armory/guard mount.

"The old classroom and guard mount locations were not conducive to meeting the war fighter's as well as security forces training needs," said Capt. Michael Shirley, 60th SFS operations officer. "Our new three-layered alarm system keeps the building secure and by switching from the outside guard mount to a hardened building we don't have to expose our personnel to the elements."

During contingencies, the new armory is able to arm the warfighter by expanding from two to five weapons issue windows.

"Our goal is to provide more mission capabilities to our people," said Captain Shirley.
The consolidation of the facilities has lightened the workload for security forces members. Previously the classroom facility and the armory were located 2.5 miles apart. The new consolidated facility is within eyesight of the firing range.

"Previously, security forces personnel would have to transport weapons back and forth from facility to facility during classes. Now we are operating more efficiently."

The outside guard mount area was also lacking hardened restroom facilities. A guard would need to have someone cover their position to use the portable facilities.

The vacant space that was used for CATM classes has been converted to a consolidated dispatch center and area where security forces can do more training.

While operational, the project is not complete. Landscaping and lighting still need to be finished.

Captain Shirley said outlook for the new facility is a positive one.

"In our stressed career field, the new building allows us to be more efficient and provide more effective training. Our goal is to provide the essential training needed by today's men and women deploying overseas," he said. "We will do anything we need to provide today's warfighters with the tools they need."