Commentary: 569 United States Forces Police Squadron is ATLAS STRONG

by Maj. Brian Gilliam
569th United States Forces Police Squadron commander

The 569th United States Forces Police Squadron is ‘ATLAS strong,’ as we align with the 86th Mission Support Group’s motto. Our Defenders, who are known as Guardian Eagles, work in a joint, multi-agency, and international environment to serve and protect the Kaiserslautern Military Community. Being ‘ATLAS strong’ at the 569th United States Forces Police Squadron means, we take care of our Guardian Eagles and their families, we grow leaders, we strive to be a positive example for others, and we steadfastly prepare to serve and protect the KMC today, and for the future fight.
To accomplish our mission of serving and protecting the KMC, we must be the most proficient Security Forces unit in the Air Force. To that end, we have two priorities: People and training.
Commanding the Guardian Eagles of the 569th United States Forces Police Squadron is a truly humbling experience. While I have commanded two previous squadrons, the opportunity to command the last police squadron in the entire Air Force is an honor unlike any other. Since I was a Second Lieutenant, and my first flight chief told me stories about the 569th, its has been a goal of mine to be a part of this storied organization. The 569th is highlighted by the black “SP” brassard, a nearly 80-year tradition dating back to the beginnings of the Air Force and the Air Police. Commanding this squadron is truly a dream come true.
Since arriving in July 2022, I have been impressed by the incredible caliber of Airmen, Soldiers, and our German partners that contribute to the mission of serving and protecting the Kaiserslautern Military Community. I could not ask for a better team.
As an organization, the 569th United States Forces Police Squadron is unique, not only is it the only police squadron in the Air Force, but its 24/7 operations with Army Military Police and Department of Emergency Service and deep partnership with our German hosts makes for an incredible team of teams.
I have charged my team with never being late in taking care of a Guardian Eagle or their families. Additionally, using Guardian Eagles’ time efficiently is, and will remain, a command priority. Training the Air Force preeminent Law Enforcement organization is no easy task. With over twenty-five percent of the entire Air Force’s caseload, this squadron truly performs incredibly at every opportunity. Balancing the need to maintain daily Law Enforcement proficiency with the challenge to organize, train, and equip for a future fight is true challenge. Our Guardian Eagles will be brilliant at the core skills that create our lethality: shoot, move, communicate, and preserve life. This foundation will reinforce excellence not only as we prepare for the future fight, but within our day-to-day service and protection of the community.
As I continue my time as the 569th United States Forces Police Squadron, I will never forget why we are here: to serve and protect the Kaiserslautern Military Community. That service begins and ends with the Airmen, Soldiers, and German partners who make up our incredible team. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve the Guardian Eagles as your commander, I am truly honored and humbled by everything you do.

Maj. Brian Gilliam, 569 USFPS commander, and members of the 569th United States Forces Police Squadron pose for a photo. The 569th USFPS is the only police squadron in the U.S. Air Force. — Courtesy photo