7th SFS honors fallen during Defender's Challenge

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kia Atkins
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Ten names were printed on the shirts of 7th Security Forces Squadron Airmen during a Defender's Challenge memorial run. Those were the names of ten Airmen who lost their lives in the war on terrorism.

The 7th Security Forces Squadron participated in a Defender's Challenge the week of Sept. 23 through Sept. 27. The Defender's Challenge dates back to the Vietnam era, then known as the safe side challenge, in order to test Security Forces knowledge in defending their bases against attacks by hostile force. This challenge is a now a memorial to honor fallen defenders who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the War on Terror.

This year's challenge consisted of a land navigation course, the Department of Defense top shot Excellence in Competition shooting competition, an obstacle course, an active shooter scenario and a memorial run.

"The purpose of the Defender's Challenge is to test our core tactics as security forces members and to honor all of our fallen defenders," said Senior Airman Cody Barrow, 7th SFS response force leader. "I'm hoping this week will further strengthen morale and bring us closer as a squadron."

After Sept. 11, 2001, all Defender's Challenges stopped Air Force-wide. This is the first documented Defender's Challenge at Dyess AFB since before 1993.

"This week is all about camaraderie and showing that we are mission capable as a squadron," said Staff Sgt. Matthew Powell, 7th SFS NCO in charge of physical security. "I believe it helps make us better at what we do."

After showcasing their skills during the week, the 7th SFS ended the Defender's Challenge with a memorial run in honor of ten fallen defenders that came from Dyess. Upon completion of the run, the participants encircled the flag pole and did a single push-up for each of their fallen defenders.

"I feel like the run is the least I could do," said Master Sgt. Benjamin Munguia, 7th SFS NCO in charge of Combat Arms Training and Maintenance. "Anything like this, whether it's a Defender's Challenge or a Warrior Run, if I can run . . . I run. Not necessarily for myself, but I run for those who can't run anymore."

The week of events ended with an awards ceremony where the best member or team from each event was given a certificate and a medal.

"This couldn't have happened without a lot of hard work from 7th SFS members," said Maj. Sarah Babbitt, 7th SFS commander. "As Defenders all of you are so bold and so brave every day, and I just wanted to thank you for being part of the security forces team.