JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Eight U.S. Air Force defenders from the 673d Security Forces Squadron participated in a Fly Away Security Team (FAST) training course at the 673d SFS Warehouse on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Sept. 15 through 19, 2025.
FAST training is a five-day, 40-hour course taught by JBER’s SFS Ravens where Airmen are challenged physically and mentally to become more lethal in protecting aircraft, air crew, cargo and distinguished visitors during operations on austere airfields.
Throughout FAST members’ area of responsibility, they aid in humanitarian missions and Department of War operations. Their missions typically involve providing a security perimeter around aircraft at unsecured, foreign airfields.
“Fly Away Security is a certification that should carry a lot of weight –It is not for your average security forces member,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Taylor Davis, noncommissioned officer in charge of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems for the 673d SFS. “Here at JBER, we hold the FAST to a higher standard and we train them at a higher standard. We train them to win.”
During the course, FAST students undergo combat and hands-on training. They work through real-word simulations, demonstrating skills they have learned throughout the week. Some of the training included peer-on-peer wrestling, baton evaluation and even flight-line training with a C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 517th Airlift Squadron.
“We train our members to go out to these austere locations or airfields that do not have adequate security,” said Tech. Sgt. Adam Stanley, 673d SFS base defense noncommissioned officer in charge. “They have been trusted in protecting personnel and assets to provide a safer environment within their area of responsibility.”
The 673d SFS teaches these classes multiple times a year not only to their own members, but to other Air Force units too. They plan to expand the program and help enhance security for airfields and aircraft.