Zero Eyes; Helping 325th SFS Detect, Deter Potential Firearm Threats

Published March 29, 2022 by SSgt Magen M. Reeves, 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. –

A computer image demonstrates the capabilities of Zero Eyes, a new artificial intelligence software designed to detect and alert the presence of firearms, at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Jan. 28, 2022. Zero Eyes utilizes digital images captured by cameras placed across the installation to alert the 325th Security Forces Squadron of potential adversaries or aggressors. (Courtesy photo)

 

The 325th Security Forces Squadron at Tyndall Air Force Base is leading the way in advancing technology and innovation by serving as the first unit to test revolutional, preemptive base security measures.

The squadron is partnering with Zero Eyes, an artificial intelligence, software-based system, that utilizes digital images captured by cameras strategically placed across the installation to detect and deter potential adversaries or aggressors.

 “The AI software can identify weapons such as shotguns, rifles and other weapon models,” said Staff Sgt. Nicholas Murphy, 325th SFS technology and innovations noncommissioned officer in charge.  “The software (detects) 360-degree visuals of various weapon models in a database which then triggers an alarm sent to security forces (who can dispatch responders) to get there as soon as possible in an active shooter situation.”

 According to Murphy, the AI system is able to distinguish when a firearm is in a slung position, as it would be carried normally by law enforcement so an alarm isn’t being triggered by security forces Airmen during their standard shifts.

 “The addition of this technology will add to and augment the installation’s Integrated Base Defense and, if it is determined by the Air Force Security Forces Center and higher headquarters as a good use case, then it could be deployed Air Force-wide, possibly even [throughout the] Department of Defense,” said Murphy.

Tyndall implemented the software earlier this year and currently remains in the testing and evaluating stage; working out kinks in the system and identifying potential improvements if the software is picked up throughout the service enterprise.

 

A computer image demonstrates the capabilities of Zero Eyes, a new artificial intelligence software designed to detect and alert the presence of firearms, at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Jan. 28, 2022. Tyndall implemented the software in early 2022 and it currently remains in the testing and evaluating stage. (Courtesy photo) 

 

“This innovation in technology is ‘early warning’ in nature and can help security forces Airmen save seconds that will save lives,” said Murphy. “It is fully mission capable and due to that presence, it is a deterrence to stop or mitigate damage. The AI meets our mission intent because these technologies are used to strengthen our multi-layered base defense capability and augment our manpower.”

The 325th SFS is working closely with higher-level units including the Air Force Security Forces Center, Air Force Research Laboratory, Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center and AFWERX, a technology directorate of AFRL, to accelerate change.

“Innovation is embedded in our culture as Airmen,” said Maj. Jordan Criss, 325th SFS commander. “From the inception of airpower to future conflicts, innovation is a must for the world’s greatest Air Force. We cannot fight tomorrow’s war with yesterday’s equipment. These types of innovations…ultimately protect our greatest resource: our Airmen.”

 

Major General Andrea D. Tullos Confirmed for her Third Star

Just before the Senate departed for their Memorial Day recess, they approved a number of nominations across the Air Force and Space Force including our own past Top Cop Maj Gen Tullos who will now become Lieutenant General Tullos! Congrats from all your Air Force Security Forces Association Defenders … well done!!!

Maj. Gen. Andrea D. Tullos is the Deputy Commander at Air Education and Training Command, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. The command is responsible for the recruiting, training and education of Air and Space Force personnel and includes Air Force Recruiting Service, two Numbered Air Forces and Air University. AETC operates more than 1,400 trainer, fighter and mobility aircraft, 24 wings, 11 bases and five geographically-separated groups. It governs approximately 60,000 active-duty, Reserve, Guard, civilian and contractor personnel who train more than 293,000 students per year.

General Tullos entered the Air Force in 1991 and received her commission through Officer Training School as a distinguished graduate. She is a career Security Forces officer and has previously served as a staff officer at the combatant command, Joint Staff, Air Staff and major command levels, most recently as the Director of Security Forces, Headquarters U.S. Air Force. She has completed multiple command tours at the squadron, group, wing, and numbered Air Force level.

Her complete biography can be found here: https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Biographies/Display/Article/936182/andrea-d-tullos/

 

 

National Police Week and the Security Forces Enterprise

A Commentary by Brig Gen Collins

The Department of the Air Force Security Forces, in conjunction with thousands of other law enforcement organizations, will pause and remember our heroes in honor of National Police Week, May 16-20, 2022.

National Police Week provides an opportunity for the community to pay special recognition to law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

As the Director of Security Forces, this week reminds me of those officers we have lost and the sacrifice that 38K Defenders, to include 5K DAF civilian Defenders, make every day to ensure the safety of the Nation and Installation at home and abroad.  These Defenders are charged with the ultimate duty to ensure the safety of others on or off duty, and I have witnessed this call to duty personally as I humbly watch the thousands of base defense, security and law enforcement responses proficiently executed across the enterprise 24/7.

Chief Master Sergeant Donald Gallagher emphasized the importance of Police Week. “Think of the word and act of sacrifice this Police Week. Never take for granted those sacrifices made daily by our Defenders and other law enforcement professionals across the country and around the globe. Whether civilian or military, the work these brave men and women do every day to protect our bases and resources is unmatched. "Defenders, these brave men and women are you!” he said. “As you stand post whether it's the frozen missile fields of Minot or the desert heat of Africa and the Middle East, know that you are not taken for granted. Your sacrifices are well known and appreciated, and there is not enough thanks we can give to recognize the work and responsibilities you take on every day. Most importantly, let us never forget our fallen that have given the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of the force and our Nation. We must always and keep them and their families in our thoughts and prayers.”

This Police Week, we honor all Defenders for their bravery, sacrifices, and dedication to the safety of others. Deputy Director of Security Forces, Timothy Gerald agreed, saying, “As we quickly approach another Police Week, its significance cannot be over emphasized. The environment for law enforcement officers is challenging at best and extremely difficult at worst. law enforcement officers’ ability to maintain their professionalism and focus on protecting the public, while facing additional scrutiny, is to be applauded. The recognition that comes with National Police Week is just a small way in which the country can say thank you to officers for the difficult and important work they do. Sadly, it is also a time to honor those officers who lost their lives doing the work they loved. Thank you for all you do.”

Brigadier General Roy Collins will also be attending the 34th Annual Candlelight Vigil, which will take place Friday, May 13th on the National Mall (between 4th and 7th Streets and Madison and Jefferson Drives) in Washington, D.C. The Candlelight Vigil starts at 8:00 pm. During Police Week, we are reminded of the importance of each Defender and thank them for all that they do to protect and uphold the mission of the United States Air Force.

At this year’s event, three of our fallen Defenders: A1C Elizabeth Jacobson, A1C LeeBernard Chavis, and SSgt Travis Griffin will be honored among 17 other fallen heroes whose names were recently added to the Memorial. The Memorial honors federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement officers.

 

 

AFSFA Has Lost Our Mother

Dr. Lucille Y. Bullock passed at 0115 hours on 20 April 2022 in San Antonio, TX with her family surrounding her.

Anyone who was a member or knew the Air Force Security Forces Association (AFSFA) also knew Dr. Lucille Y. Bullock was the mother of our association. Her fingerprints and thoughtful touch can be found on every program and effort in the association. She and Jerry helped found a professional organization for all Air Force Defenders past and present. She was extremely proud of AFSFA and its role in caring for the Security Forces career field. For 29 years ... hers was the pleasant voice you heard when calling headquarters in San Marcos, TX. And each AFSFA National Meeting was an opportunity for more and more members and their families to meet and get to know the smile and laugh of our mother. All the board members and officers also knew that if anything was going to be printed, published or handed out it had first better clear the red pen review our chief proofreader … Lucille. Simply put, she just made us all better at every turn. Lucille was a lovely and loving mom who strengthened the heart of our association. She will be missed but she has left a lasting influence on every one of us.

The family is scheduling a Celebration of Life ceremony for 1000 hours, 30 April 2022 at the First Baptist Church of San Marcos, San Marcos, TX.

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