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Perimeters Secured as Security Squadron Is Commissioned

Navy Newsstand

Story Number: NNS030530-18

Release Date: 5/31/2003 5:20:00 PM

By Journalist 2nd Class (SW) Jason Heavner, Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- May 23 at 10 a.m., Mobile Security Squadron 3 was inaugurated into the naval fleet at Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., in Building 209.

The squadron consists of four units, eight officers, and 140 crew members, which more than 70 percent are rated as master-at-arms (MAs). This also marks the first such unit to be introduced into the Pacific Fleet. Two of the command's four units will deploy this fall.

"Today is not just a ceremony about bringing a squadron to life, but it's a celebration of how these crew members built this command with their own hands, and it's also a celebration of what they're about to accomplish in the near future," said Cmdr. Jonathan Vanscoy. The Silver Spring, Md., native is the commanding officer of Mobile Security Squadron 3.

The principal speaker of the event was Vice Adm. Charles W. Moore Jr., deputy chief of naval operations, N4, Fleet Readiness and Logistics. "Ever since the global war on terrorism began, the Navy has advanced its investments and capabilities to ensure that all of our American people, as well as our ships and other Navy assets, are safe from any terrorist activity, which leads to this very building. I believe that this building is the centerpiece of what will exist for us in years to come - the tool that will be used to protect our Navy, wherever it might be," said Moore.

With the attacks on USS Cole (DDG 67) in October 2000, as well as the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the Navy's vulnerability, as well as the defense of America, was exposed. This prompted the Navy to develop such a unit as Mobile Security Squadron 3 - a unit that can go out in harm's way whether it's in a port, overseas, or up and down the Pacific coastline.

"Knowing that our job is crucial and providing security is the most important thing. Everyone in this command has each other's back. It's an incredible feeling knowing that I'm in a tight knit community such as this squadron," said Master-at-Arms Seaman Apprentice Jennifer Potter from Long Island, N.Y.

To establish the foundation for this command, each crew member had to be somewhat familiar with law enforcement, physical standards had to be met and numerous force protection drills had to be conducted to qualify, as well as certifying the group, so they can deploy at a moment's notice when needed.

"I have a lot of respect for these guys. Not only did they have to go through numerous force protection drills to get certified in different fields, but they had to bring an old abandoned building back to life. They did it without any hesitation and to the best of their ability. What can I say - I'm truly proud of them all," added Vanscoy.