JBER: 3rd SFS, Fort Rich's Emergency Services merge with same goals

  • Published
  • By the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Enterprise
ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  The famed Howard Jones song "Things can only get better" best highlights what's to come for Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in 2010.

The 3rd Security Forces Squadron and the Directorate of Emergency Services integration will not only maintain the levels of law enforcement and security support, but improve them during the transition.

Although some names may change, the locations and quality service will not. In fact, certain areas will see immediate improvements upon reaching full-operational capability in October 2010.

One immediate area of improvement will be installation access control. Currently, there are different entry requirements between the bases. As a result of joint basing, installation access requirements will be standardized.

This means no matter which gate is used, drivers can expect the same processes. After October 2010, Department of Defense vehicle decals will no longer be required to access the installation.

Another benefit to joint basing is the opportunity to combine efforts and establish one motor vehicle traffic code for JBER. Each patrol officer will use the same standard of service while enforcing joint base traffic.

Joint basing will also allow for a central repository for crime statistics and trends. This means security personnel will have the ability to better collate and analyze data, assisting in implementing comprehensive law enforcement planning across JBER. Ultimately, this will provide a safer and more secure community.

Finally, the new joint base security forces squadron is dedicated to protecting life and property, while enhancing the quality of life for all who live and work on base. The squadron will partner with the community to identify, prioritize and solve problems such as crime, the fear of crime and other security issues, to improve the quality of life for the joint base community while maintaining a strong law enforcement focus. In addition, protecting war fighting assets will remain a priority, at home and deployed, in support of the Global War on Terror.

Things are getting better for all JBER community members. Security and law enforcement is no exception. As the base transitions to a single facility, consolidated standards and a unified force will be better able to protect our population and facilities or respond to any situation. Members of the community can trust the JBER security professionals to respond with respect, professionalism and compassion in their time of need.

For more information, call the Joint Base Enterprise Team at 384-JBER (5237) or e-mail jber.qa@elmendorf.af.mil or jber.qa@richardson.army.mil.