It may have had its origin back as far as the Revolutionary War, this bond that ties us so firmly together. But, whenever it started, it developed slowly through the years, forged in adversity, strengthened by danger, tried by endless hours of mind numbing boredom, honed by the terror of battle, and brought to fruition by the exhilaration of our achievements.

It withstood the bitter years of World War II, the frustrations of Korea, and the agony of Viet Nam; reveled in the revival that began with Grenada and Panama; stood steadfastly through the long grinding years of the Cold War; and blossomed brilliantly in the sands of Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm. It is a gem hidden in the folds of brotherhood that, in a larger sense, binds together all who have ever served beneath our country’s colors. It is unique to us, the men and women of the United States Air Force Security Police (Forces). 

Because of it, we have a special sense of pride in our calling, in our comrades, and in ourselves. Down deep we know that our standing on the stone, enduring the bite of the “Old Hawk,” or sweltering in the sun; our suffering the benign neglect of those who should have known better; our fighting desperately in a jungle, on a frozen hill, or in burning desert sand; or our going quietly in harm’s way while those we guarded slept made a difference.

But, why is this bond so different—so unique? It is because we cared for each other in a special way. From the youngster standing his first post to the highest-ranking noncommissioned officer and officer, we had a special place in our hearts for all who wore the shield. 

That caring spanned the great diversity of our duties, tied us together in the face of adversity, and made us a family in the truest sense. Because of it, there was always a helping hand, a word of comfort or encouragement, a boost when the going got tough, and a friend when one was needed. It endures forever and, because of it, we are never alone. How fortunate we are to share in this bond—The Bond of the Blue Beret.

William R. Brooksher

BGen USAF (Ret)