(Editor's Note: National Police Week is May 9 -15. The week is set aside each year to honor all law enforcement officers – military and civilian – who have given their lives for our nation and their communities. In addition to honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, we wanted to use this month to recognize the work of security forces members within the Air Force Security Forces Center, Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center headquarters and our detachments. Like Defenders who have gone before, they are paving the way for the next generation because of the work they are doing for installations to include funding, training and equipment.)
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- Meet Lowell Bowen, chief of protection services, Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center Detachment 10, Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana.
We asked him to tell us a little bit about himself and what he does to support the Air Force Defender mission.
What are your main responsibilities?
I oversee all security forces, fire and emergency services for Air Force Global Strike Command and provide a direct liaison to the Air Force Security Forces Center and AFGSC SF staff.
What is the best thing about your job?
Seeing Defenders in the field benefiting from the tools we work to provide them.
As a child, what job did you want to have when you grew up?
I have always wanted to be in law enforcement since I can remember. After separating from active duty, I spent eight years with the Shreveport Police Department, and I’m grateful for this experience as well.
What made you pursue law enforcement as a career?
As a young child, I have always looked up to law enforcement as those who protect and will always be there for you.
What is your favorite part about being an Air Force security forces member?
As a civilian security forces Defender and a superintendent of an Air Force Reserve unit, the greatest thing is watching our Defenders grow and the progression of the technology they have at their fingertips.
Why is your job important to the Air Force mission?
Advocating for the needs of Defenders in the field. Knowing what is needed in the field and why it is needed.
What advice do you have for someone new to the security forces career field?
If you have an issue with a process, procedure or technology; speak up. We cannot help you unless you tell us what is wrong and what would make it better for the future Defenders.
What or who motivates and inspires you the most?
There are three things that motivates me through life. Faith/family/mission! No matter if it is on the job or any other task; if you do not have those three together, it is guaranteed mission failure in the end.