MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. – Marines participated in Security Augmentation Force training aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Calif., April 21 to May 1.
Marines throughout the air station volunteer to become certified to assist the Provost Marshal’s Office when needed.
“The course is an 80-hour course; it encompasses things such as access control to law enforcement qualifications and all-encompassing use of force training,” said Jose Maldonado, SAF lead instructor with Homeland Security Solutions, Inc. “So when they are activated they are on the same page as law enforcement aboard the installation.”
Marines receive classes about use of force, searching suspects and vehicles, pepper spray and defensive tactics as part of the training. The Marines also receive training with the M9 pistol and M4 shotgun.
“It lets them get out of their bubble, get away from their regular work and really focuses on being a United States Marine,” said Maldonado. “It makes them a well-rounded Marine.”
Marines with SAF activate for training when higher security levels are required. Marines with SAF work their regular jobs, but can perform all necessary tasks to keep the air station safe.
“I’ve received a lot of training with shooting stances and defensive tactics,” said Lance Cpl. Craig Bailey, an airframe mechanic with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462. “I would be able to handle any situation,”
With 10 days of training, the Marines participated in the course to augment the military police. These Marines are now prepared to support PMO and military police officers successfully and to respond to a crisis if necessary.