LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- Col. Denny Davies, 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander, participated in Operation Feathered Laser which was conducted by the 19th Security Forces Squadron at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, March 21, 2024.
The purpose of Operation Feathered Laser was to help paint a vivid picture of the crucial role played by the 19th SFS in ensuring base safety and security, while providing training designed to simulate real-world gate situations.
19 SFS conducts Op Feathered Laser
A vehicle goes through inspection procedures at the Vandenberg Gate at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, March 21, 2024. Personnel with the 19th Security Forces Squadron man the gate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sarah Ortega Corona)
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19 SFS conducts Op Feathered Laser
Col. Denny Davies, the 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander, interacts with base leadership during exercise Feathered Laser at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, March 21, 2024. The exercise included six hands-on scenarios, offering Davies insight into security forces decision-making skills and operational complexities at the base gates. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sarah Ortega Corona)
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19 SFS conducts Op Feathered Laser
Col. Denny Davies, 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander, participates in exercise Feathered Laser at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, March 21, 2024. The purpose of the exercise was to help paint a vivid picture of the crucial role played by the 19th Security Forces Squadron in ensuring base safety and security and providing training experiences designed to simulate real-world gate situations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sarah Ortega Corona)
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19 SFS conducts Op Feathered Laser
Col. Denny Davies, 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander, participates in exercise Feathered Laser at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, March 21, 2024. The purpose of the exercise was to help paint a vivid picture of the crucial role played by the 19th Security Forces Squadron in ensuring base safety and security and providing training experiences designed to simulate real-world gate situations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sarah Ortega Corona)
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Master Sgt. Stephen Adams-Smith, 19th SFS section chief of standardization and evaluations, gave Davies insights into decision-making skills and operational complexities at the gates during the exercise's six hands-on scenarios.
“This experience has truly opened my eyes to the challenges faced by the Airmen stationed at the gate,” Davies said. “It can be easy to forget the complexities they deal with while we're comfortably driving by, and this lack of awareness often results in less-than-ideal interactions. I am grateful for the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in these roles; it's certainly not an easy job.”
Staff Sgt. Miyah Jones, 19th SFS and Defense Biometrics Identification System program manager, explained that with thousands of vehicles passing through each day, issues such as turnarounds, improper credentials and flagged individuals can contribute to gate congestion. Jones said her and her team uphold their duty with dedication, serving as gatekeepers and problem solvers.
“I take immense pride in the dedication and resilience of my team,” said Chief Master Sgt. Patrick Lombardo, 19th SFS senior enlisted leader. “Our job is far from straightforward; every 10 seconds brings a new scenario, demanding constant vigilance and adaptability. Our personnel must remain focused on every single detail, ensuring the safety and security of all.”