Diamond Sharp Airmen: Proud protector

Editor's note: This feature is the 21st in a series of Air Commando spotlights at Cannon. The airmen being highlighted are recent Diamond Sharp award winners. Diamond Sharp is a monthly program where airmen are recognized by wing leadership and first sergeants for their hard work and achievements.

U.S. Air Force graphic: Senior Airman Alexxis Pons Abascal

Diamond Sharp is a monthly program where Airmen are recognized by wing leadership and first sergeants for their hard work and achievements. Staff Sgt. Posie Smith III, 27th Special Operations Security Forces Squadron, was recently awarded by leadership as a Diamond Sharp recipient for the month of April.

Commonly referred to as "The Protectors," members of the 27th Special Operations Security Forces Squadron have no simple tasking. Charged with protecting base personnel, property, resources and military assets, these exemplary Air Commandos personify the Air Force warrior ethos.

This "warrior ethos" is the foundation of what it means to be an airman — exhibiting hardiness of spirit, along with moral and physical courage. The protectors at Cannon Air Force Base accomplish their mission by maintaining extensive training requirements in law enforcement and combat tactics as well as ensuring they can meet the physically and mentally demanding aspects of the career.

"My job offers me something new each day," said Staff Sgt. Posie Smith III, 27 SOSFS. "We play a vital role in the protection of our most important assets - our people."

Smith was recently awarded by leadership as a Diamond Sharp recipient for the month of April. His professionalism and superior performance on and off duty earned him this recognition.

The 27 SOSFS accomplishes global special operations tasks as an Air Force component member of U.S. Special Operations Command. These troops secure Special Operations Forces aviation assets, equipment and personnel in-garrison and deployed locations. The squadron also provides base pass and registration services for airmen, families and civilians wanting access to the installation.

"There is no room for error in our line of work," Smith stated. "Attention to detail is paramount. You can't let your guard down for a second when safeguarding lives."

Security forces specialists are able to direct vehicles and pedestrian traffic on base, conduct investigations into on-base incidents, apprehend and detain suspects, secure crime scenes and testify in court. Additionally, security forces personnel ensure the safety of all weapons on base from hostile forces.

"I am honored and humbled to receive this award," Smith continued. "There are airmen just like me putting in the same effort every day; this award shines a light on all that we offer our base."