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71st SFS demonstrates skills during Kyrgyzstan deployment

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Mary Davis
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
MANAS AIR BASE, Kyrgyzstan --  Warfighters deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom can rest easy knowing their safety lies in the hands of Vance Air Force Base's security forces professionals.

Members of the 71st Security Forces Squadron from Vance AFB, Okla., deployed to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan, in February to protect personnel and cargo from increased threats and terrorist activity while traveling down range to support OEF.

As the 376th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron flight commander, 2nd Lt. Kevin Summers had the chance to view his job differently.

"At Vance, I'm in charge of many different aspects within the squadron -- mobility, training, supply and combat arms training and maintenance," said the lieutenant from Lancaster, S.C. "Here, I have the opportunity to deal with the day-to-day operations of the squadron. As the flight commander of the night shift, I'm in charge of several defenders who protect the base."

One defender, Staff Sgt. David Hoy, is a familiar face in the crowd for the lieutenant. They protected the home front together back at Vance.

Sergeant Hoy serves as the battle defense operations center controller and fire team leader at Manas and knows of the unique challenges deployments raise.

"When you first arrive at a deployed location, you really don't know what to expect," he said. "You aren't given weeks or months to learn about your new job."

One inherent challenge that comes with the job is communication with the local people, said Lieutenant Summers.

"The language barrier is an obvious problem," he said. The defenders communicate to Kyrgyz airport police through interpreters to ensure vital messages are conveyed.

One thing Sergeant Hoy noticed about the Kyrgyz people is the fair treatment of everyone, regardless of race.

"The Kyrgyz people are very honorable and proud," explained the sergeant, who hails from Helena, Okla. "These people may look Russian or Asian, but show no difference between each other. There seems to be no discrimination between races -- they are all Kyrgyz. Their unity amazes me."

Living conditions are good at Manas, where servicemembers live in dormitories complete with separated showers, latrines and laundry rooms on each floor. Servicemembers also have a gym and recreational facilities to help pass the time.

"It has definitely improved since the last time I deployed," Sergeant Hoy said.

With the 11-hour time difference between Kyrgyzstan and Vance, it can be challenging to keep in touch with loved ones.

"My fiancé isn't happy about me being away for several months, but she understands why we are here," said Lieutenant Summers, who plans to marry in November. "She knows I have a job to do. We e-mail a lot and I call once a week."

Sergeant Hoy also keeps in touch with his loved ones by telephone and e-mail.

"My wife is proud of what I do. She is the strongest, most courageous and big-hearted person I know," he said. "Both our families live in Oklahoma, and I know everyone is always asking if she needs help. This alone sets my mind at ease."

Lieutenant Summers is proud of all the defenders at the deployed location.

"They have accomplished great things and have the potential to do more while they are here," he said. "It's been a good experience this far, and I expect it to be the same for the rest of my tour."

Also proud of the Vance security forces team is Maj. Rob Rossi, the 71st SFS commander.

"Security forces Airmen train for all environments and situations, never knowing where they may be deployed," the commander said. "I am tremendously proud of our security forces members deployed throughout the world supporting the Global War on Terrorism."