JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Airman 1st Class Joshua Long is a member of the 628th Security Forces Squadron and has been stationed at Joint Base Charleston for a year-and-a-half.
He is currently deployed to the Middle East, where he is assigned to the 380th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron.
In his deployed unit, Airman Long is a Fire Team member. His primary duties are to provide patrol coverage and response in the protection of $4.6 billion in U.S. resources. Additionally, Airman Long serves as an installation entry controller and overwatch in the protection of more than 2,000 U.S. and Allied personnel.
"My duties overseas have differed from Charleston in that I was performing personal security details for the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff," explained Airman Long. The similarities to Joint Base Charleston involve entry controller duties, flightline security and ovewatch posts.
According to Airman Long, what he likes best about his job is the relationships he builds, as well as knowing he is providing safety to the base.
"My favorite aspect of my career field is the camaraderie security forces members have with one another and the feeling that I have done my part to keep my fellow Airmen and U.S. resources safe," Airman Long said.
Airman Long said he feels his greatest contribution to Team Charleston's mission is providing airtight security for Protection Level resources and personnel.
This "warrior of the week" hails from Berlin, Conn. and joined the Air Force two years ago.
"I chose the Air Force because of the prior enlistment of my mother and I wanted to become a police officer," said Airman Long. "I felt being a security forces member would be a great career or a significant step toward fulfilling that goal."
Airman Long said his goals are to continue with his career and progression by finishing his bachelor's degree in criminal justice.
"Airman Long has been an invaluable member of the 380 ESFS team throughout this deployment," said Tech. Sgt. Meredith, 380 ESFS Installation Security noncommissioned officer in charge. "His can-do attitude and penchant for putting the team first have really set him apart from his peers."