Securing NAFB flightline Published Sept. 10, 2014 By 1st Lt. Julien Adams 99th Security Forces Squadron NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- The 99th Air Base Wing and 57th Wing partnered to make the flightline here more secure. Units from both wings worked together for the past year to assess security concerns and come up with a workable solution to close many of the entry control points to gain access to the flightline. The selected ECPs throughout the flightline are scheduled to close Sept. 15. The 99th Security Forces Squadron initiated the proposal to effectively secure the flightline in December 2013. The 57th Maintenance Squadron and the 99th Logistic Readiness Squadron proved essential to crafting a plan that addressed security concerns and the needs of flightline operations. The 99th SFS presented the ECP-closure proposal to the 99th ABW and 57th WG commanders to close infrequently used vehicle and pedestrian ECPs, except during major exercises when they will remain open. The process kicked into full gear when leadership from both wings conducted a perimeter tour in June 2014. During the tour, it was determined there were more ECPs than needed for day-to-day operations. The 99th SFS commander proposed to close redundant ECPs. "Reducing the number of ECPs will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Security Forces response to unauthorized flightline intrusion attempts," said Maj. Joseph Ringer, 99th SFS commander. He added that limiting access points also limits choices for unauthorized individuals to access the flightline and assets on the flightline. The more entry points there are, the more likely unauthorized personnel can gain access to the flightline before being noticed. "This initiative enhances flightline security, protecting our valuable aircraft and safeguarding mission accomplishment without significantly impeding authorized access," said Brig. Gen. Christopher Short, 57th WG commander. "It's another great example of 99th ABW and 57th WG's collaboration as we implement solutions to resolve resource challenges and execute the mission." With force reduction moving throughout the Air Force, effectively managing manpower and equipment is paramount. "Our mission here is to protect and defend all personnel and resources and enable the development of the next generation of warfighters," said Ringer. "With the support of all installation agencies, the flightline will be a safer place."
