JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
As installations across the country commemorate National Police Week, Joint Base Andrews recognizes the proud and enduring legacy of its own Defenders; members of the 316th Security Forces Group who have protected the base, its assets, and its people since its founding in 1943.
Military police at Andrews have gone by many names over the decades, ranging from Military Police to Air Police, and now Security Forces; but their mission has remained committed to safeguarding the installation and enabling the Air Force mission.
One notable chapter in Andrews’ security history began in 1961, when the first sentry dogs arrived at the base. These military working dogs moved into a newly constructed facility and became an integral part of the base’s security operations. The sentry dog teams were among the first in the Air Force to demonstrate their capabilities publicly, enhancing deterrence and providing valuable support to Air Police in preventing theft of government property.
By the end of 1962, the Andrews Sentry Dog program had grown to include 14 dogs and 15 handlers. These teams provided base defense and operational readiness, while growing the importance of military working dogs.
In 1965, as the United States expanded its involvement in Vietnam, members of the Andrews Air Police and their sentry dogs deployed as part of a provisional wing tasked with delivering F-5 Freedom Fighter aircraft to American allies. The team helped establish and maintain an air base in the region. While all Air Police personnel returned home after the operation, their canine partners remained behind due to military policy that prohibited their return. This left Andrews with a shortage of sentry dogs during the war, bringing attention to the sacrifices carried quietly by those who serve in silence.
These historical milestones are just a few examples of the courage, professionalism and sacrifice that have defined Andrews’ Defenders for more than 80 years. From Cold War security to modern-day force protection and contingency operations, the base’s Security Forces personnel continue to play a vital role in projecting airpower and protecting national interests.
As we honor National Police Week, we salute the past and present members of Joint Base Andrews’ Security Forces for their unwavering commitment to duty and their legacy of service. Behind every mission stands a Defender whose service came with a cost.
By the end of 1962, the Andrews Sentry Dog program had grown to include 14 dogs and 15 handlers. These teams provided base defense and operational readiness, while growing the importance of military working dogs.
In 1965, as the United States expanded its involvement in Vietnam, members of the Andrews Air Police and their sentry dogs deployed as part of a provisional wing tasked with delivering F-5 Freedom Fighter aircraft to American allies. The team helped establish and maintain an air base in the region. While all Air Police personnel returned home after the operation, their canine partners remained behind due to military policy that prohibited their return. This left Andrews with a shortage of sentry dogs during the war, bringing attention to the sacrifices carried quietly by those who serve in silence.
These historical milestones are just a few examples of the courage, professionalism and sacrifice that have defined Andrews’ Defenders for more than 80 years. From Cold War security to modern-day force protection and contingency operations, the base’s Security Forces personnel continue to play a vital role in projecting airpower and protecting national interests.
As we honor National Police Week, we salute the past and present members of Joint Base Andrews’ Security Forces for their unwavering commitment to duty and their legacy of service. Behind every mission stands a Defender whose service came with a cost.