KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. – Col. Justin Secrest, 377th Air Base Wing and installation commander, recognized Master Sgt. Chase Eyre, Tech. Sgt. Roman Duran, Staff Sgt. Christian Roybal, Senior Airman Seth Fenton, and Airman 1st Class Samuel Morrison, members of the 377th Security Forces Squadron, April 14, for their heroic and decisive response to a March 22 bomb threat at the Eubank Gate.
During the ceremony, Secrest and Chief Master Sgt. Andrew Rapsavage, 377th Air Base Wing command chief, presented commander’s coins to the 377th Security Forces Squadron Members, a time-honored military tradition recognizing exceptional service and performance. The acknowledgment came after the Airmen, known as Defenders, effectively neutralized a threat at the Eubank Gate.
The incident, which occurred March 22, involved a vehicle that approached the Eubank Gate, with the driver claiming to have an explosive device. The 377th Security Forces Squadron responded swiftly and decisively, securing the area, detaining the individual and coordinating with the 377th Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, as well as the Albuquerque Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The vehicle and individual were later turned over to the Albuquerque Police Department. Their rapid and professional actions ensured the safety and security of the Kirtland community.
Secrest emphasized the professionalism and courage displayed by the Defenders during the high-stakes incident, highlighting their ability to execute their training flawlessly and protect lives across the installation.
The combined response from the 377th Security Forces Squadron and 377th Explosive Ordnance Disposal flight highlighted the seamless integration of Kirtland’s emergency services. The situation was resolved without incident, and base operations returned to normal thanks to the Airmen’s quick and effective actions.