Air Combat Command unveiled a new unit award—the Security Forces Order of the Shield—bestowing the inaugural award to the 99th Ground Combat Training Squadron at Creech AFB, Nev., on Feb. 6. The award recognizes individuals or ACC units who have made significant contributions to security operations, training, and ground defense of ACC installations, missions, personnel, and resources. The initial award to the 99th GCTS comes as it draws down and inactivates next month. The squadron has an amazing history, said Maj. Jesse Goens, the 99th GCTS commander, and has contributed to the development and training of security forces airmen for three decades. Cadre assigned to the 99th GCTS have prepared thousands of security forces airmen through the Silver Flag Alpha training range, south of Creech, since 1981, training around 3,000 airmen every year in 23 expeditionary combat skills, base operations, and security missions. The 99th GCTS Silver Flag Alpha is one of four training locations that will close as part of a consolidation of security forces training with the US Army. SF-A will relocate to Fort Bliss, Texas, under the 204th Security Forces Squadron.
Work Has Begun to Adapt Qatari 747 to Fly as Air Force One
Sept. 15, 2025
The Air Force has started modifying a Boeing 747 donated by Qatar for "executive airlift," a spokesperson said Sept. 15. President Donald Trump has said he wants to fly the jet as “Air Force One” since new presidential transports, held up by delays, won't be ready until after his term…
