Be Prepared!

  • Published
  • By Col. James Vechery
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  As I think back to my days in the Boy Scouts, I remember the familiar motto "Be Prepared!" I learned a lot of life lessons in the Boy Scouts, and this motto is definitely one of the most memorable. The charge to Be Prepared can serve us all well. During my last Commander's Call in September, we introduced an Active Shooter briefing with two men entering the base theater and firing blank rounds. To those in attendance, the experience was probably a bit shocking...it was intended to be. A year ago next week the shooting at Fort Hood, Texas claimed the lives of 13 people and wounded 32 others. It's easy to think that could never happen at Travis, but do you think the Soldiers who were preparing that day for a deployment thought they would ever encounter gunshots on their own post?

This is just one type of threat we need to be aware of even at Travis Air Force Base. Although we go to great lengths to protect our base, it is our responsibility to Be Prepared to respond to an attack, should it occur. Since September 11, 2001, we have seen what lengths terrorists will go to, from attacking buildings with airplanes to attacking subway systems. The recent terror warnings in Europe and the additional travel advisories throughout Mexico are significant reminders that we must always remain vigilant and Be Prepared to respond when we are at home and as we travel.

The Security Forces Squadron and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations are continually working to make our base more secure. Through end of year fallout funding we will be expanding our emergency response capability with a system called AtHoc, a network-based mass notification system to enable base leadership and first responders to communicate immediately with work centers on base. In addition, we were able to fund perimeter fencing upgrades and the hiring of new civilian Security Forces personnel. These individuals will allow our Defenders wearing the uniform to spend additional time planning for the overall security of our base. Finally, the Security Forces Squadron is preparing for the introduction of the Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS). This system, which has been used at overseas locations for years, increases security by easily identifying and accounting for personnel entering military installations.
These and other measures are being taken to help our base community Be Prepared!

These upgrades will increase the security of our installation, but I need you to do your part too.

You have probably heard the phrase, "Every Airman is a sensor." This concept applies not only downrange, but also right here at home. If you hear something or see something suspicious, report it. I also need you to Be Prepared if an event of this kind does occur. I urge you to carefully read and remember the active shooter response actions in the article on page 4.

Take a moment now to ensure your cell phone is programmed with (707) 424-4911, our on-base 911 line. Calling this number in an emergency will ensure the most rapid on-base response possible. Also program the Eagle Eyes number, (707) 424-3293, and remember to "Watch...Protect...Report." If we work together, look out for each other and prepare ourselves, Travis will be as safe as possible, and we will be ready if ever there is a day when we must act on our training.