A standing order

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Katie Batchelder
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  On a sunny day, a windy day or even during a torrential downpour, the civilian gate guards of the 60th Security Forces Squadron stand watch to help ensure security around Travis.

A long day of checking identification cards and being blinded by headlights can create a recipe for bad moods or decrease in quality of work. But that is not the case for the civilian gate guard team.

According to Joseph Houston, the civilian gate guard program manager, David Milnes and Crystal Houston are two of the stern, hard - working individuals who do an exceptional job helping keep the base secure.

"Crystal is more stern than most of the men," said Mr. Houston. "She is a tough cookie and is very by-the-book, which makes her very good at her job."

During an average eight-hour shift, the guards see about 1,500 to 2,000 people come through the gates, which results in some interesting experiences for the guards.

Mr. Milnes, a retired Army staff sergeant, said his worst experience occurred when an angry dog almost bit him. That alone would make a lot of people think of changing professions, he said.

Ms. Houston said her best experience was helping to apprehend a driver who was under the influence of alcohol.

"Sometimes what we do goes unnoticed but it is such an important piece of the puzzle," she said.

In addition to providing security, the guards are also able to render the appropriate salute to military officers as they roll through the gate.

"Saluting makes us feel like part of the team," said Ms. Houston. "It's a symbol of respect for what they do and a way for us to convey that we appreciate it. When we are politely saluted back, we also feel appreciated."

Appreciation can come in many forms. For the gate guards, it comes in salutes, smiles and sometimes food.

"Sometimes people will ask us our names and the next time they come through, they'll say hello or even bring cookies or hot chocolate on a cold day," said Mr. Milnes. "It makes us want to do a good job when we feel like we are noticed before everyone heads off to begin their busy days."