What is being a Security Forces Officer like?

2018-03-16T09:13:52-04:00

I’m currently in college, enlisted in the ANG. I’m looking to join the AFROTC program at my university and commission as a Security Forces Officer. What are the pros and cons? Are there different sub-fields within Security Forces officers?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2018 11:05 AM

2018-03-16T11:05:27-04:00

Not sure about different sub-fields that officers in SF would go with - especially since the merger of LE & Security. I think, now, they are more focused on the big picture as a whole, instead of specifically over LE ops & Security Ops. Of course, specifics would depend on what Wing you are assigned to - an LE wing, or a Security wing.
Its never bad to consider going commissioned once you complete your degree!

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made Mar 16 at 2018 1:46 PM

2018-03-16T13:46:57-04:00

There are no sub-fields for 31P (the AFSC for Officer Security Forces) like there are for enlisted. You will get sent any place that there are SF units (which is everywhere). However, your chances of going to a missile base is much higher than an enlisted SF Airman.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 21 at 2018 3:35 AM

2018-03-21T03:35:06-04:00

Quick question to you friend. Do you have any college experience (credits) or have formal Science Degrees in Medicine, Aeronautics, etc? Thats what the AF is currently looking for that I am currently aware of but supervisors in your flight (Flight Msgt and/or officer between O-1 to O-3) would know more how to commission and a good place to start. I have many hopes you'll make a great commissioned officer Airman. Looking forward to crosspaths with you soon.

Response by SSgt JandjiLynn Campbell made Mar 25 at 2018 9:06 PM

2018-03-25T21:06:19-04:00

If I had a choice I would pick an Officer Job within a Fighter Wing. I was an F-16 Crew chief. So many opportunities for the officers I was acquainted with.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2018 2:16 PM

2018-04-16T14:16:03-04:00

Ask the Airman at the gate when the rain is coming sideways and they dont have heaters, or ask after their shift got pushed past 15hrs or maybe just ask whenever you feel, most opinions are the same depending on base

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 14 at 2018 6:34 AM

2018-05-14T06:34:21-04:00

Anybody have any insight on how often SF Officers deploy. I'm just getting back from one and got picked up to commission and am now waiting on ots date then tech school. Hoping I can have some time with my family before coming back, leaving, coming back, leaving etc. I am reserve by the way.

Response by SSgt Joseph Keough made May 17 at 2018 1:37 PM

2018-05-17T13:37:54-04:00

Pros? Second best job in the USAF. ( 1st would be a B-52 crew member.) Cons? Pretty much working around the clock.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 3:02 AM

2018-05-23T03:02:19-04:00

I'd say go into a career field that will translate better into the civilian world.

Response by SSgt Travis Smith made Jun 26 at 2018 8:38 AM

2018-06-26T08:38:31-04:00

That's a hard question to answer now days..it was different when I was in.. it was seperated into law enforcement and security.. they have since combined into the security forces.. I seperated in 1995

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2018 7:09 AM

2018-07-27T07:09:23-04:00

All I can provide for you is insight on how ROTC will go for you. I did two years of it before going enlisted. If you already have your associates, then only three years will be required for you in the program. I know a few Security Forces officers that I was in ROTC with and they were pretty sharp. I recommend you do your research in advance before making the decision to go to the ROTC program at your university. Get a good idea on how you would like to plan and map out your degree plan and how the stress level would be blended in with participating in the program and taking classes because believe me when I say the attrition rate in ROTC is horrendous for this exact reason. Not everyone can make it work. Also, scope out the detachment and see how the people are. Some people in the program I was in weren’t exactly the best people so just kind of see what all you’ll be getting yourself into. If you do decide to do it, keep in mind that most of the people in the program will be immature and cause more drama than you can handle. Stand clear of this and focus on your goals and yourself being successful in the program. Don’t worry about anyone else and don’t compare your progress with anyone else, only focus on yourself. I have plans on applying for OTS this December and I also encourage you to continue your plans and goals of higher aspirations with the military. Good luck buddy

Response by CMSgt Kevin White made Sep 26 at 2018 7:51 PM

2018-09-26T19:51:09-04:00

Wonderful:

You will be in charge of people who know more than YOU at the beginning and you will later become a true leader-manager.

The larger issue is maintaining police professionalism because being honorable is hard for many Americans.