Defender Nation,
Today, 6 March 2026, is my last day as your Director of Security Forces. This position has been one of the highlights of my professional life!
As the Director, I witnessed Security Forces Airmen doing amazing things in every environment imaginable. We should be incredibly proud of the work we do every day, all day, in all weather, and in all threat environments. We have stood post and Defended fellow Americans, Allies, Partners, and resources vital to national security. Thank you for everything you do and will continue to do.
I also want to thank all of the Defenders serving in staff roles around the globe. You have truly made Defenders your priority, you have worked to ensure Defenders execute the mission they have today and are prepared for the mission tomorrow.
I leave my post as the Director of Security Forces to be the Deputy Commanding General – Maneuver for Joint Task Force – Southern Border. I am honored by the opportunity and look forward to applying all the of the skills I gained in Security Forces to a vital joint and interagency mission.
Colonel Damian Schlussel will be taking my place as the Acting Director of Security Forces. He is perfect for the position, and I know he will bring a huge level of skill and enthusiasm.
I will look on with great interest and pride as you continue to rise to new heights!
Please pass this message on to your Defenders and thank them for me!
You have the watch!
Brig Gen Filler
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Defender 1 Update
Defender Nation,
I am extremely humbled at the opportunity to serve you as your acting Director of Security Forces. It is AWESOME to be back in the Defender family full-time; I am absolutely honored to be given this opportunity. Without a doubt, I have some big boots to fill as Brig Gen Filler set this enterprise up for success. I know he will continue to represent the badge & beret with pride as part of JTF Southern Border.
My charge is simple…it is our job to provide you, the troops executing the mission every day, the best advocacy/policy/guidance so you can DEFEND our bases 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, weekends, down-days, and holidays. You arm up every day, stand the watch, run towards the danger, and ensure our Air and Space Force missions execute with precision. When all else fails, it will be your training, discipline, and fitness that will WIN the fight!
I look forward to seeing you in action and being your biggest wingman as we accomplish our extremely consequential and sacred duties in these challenging times.
Let’s go…HUA!
V/R
DAMIAN SCHLUSSEL, Colonel, USAF
Director of Security Forces (acting)
Additional AFSFA Note:
AFSFA wishes BGen Filler the best in his new challenging role and welcomes Col Schlussel back to Defender Nation ... good to have you back home Damian.
