MISSION
“Credible. Lethal. Ready.” The 31st Security Forces Squadron executes force protection operations to secure and defend Aviano Air Base and its mission-critical assets during peacetime and wartime ensuring guaranteed dominance against all threats through undeniable credibility and mutually supportive partnerships. Operating across eight distinct base areas, the squadron sustains the safeguarding of Protection Level 1, 2, 3, and 4 resources, including two F-16 fighter squadrons, while delivering law enforcement and security to a community of nearly 8,000 personnel. The 31st SFS maintains a state of constant readiness, preparing more than 50 mobility personnel, sustaining organic air base defense capabilities, and providing expert staff assistance and security oversight to four geographically separated units. The squadron’s undeniable commitment to excellence ensures the security of U.S. Air Force operations and assets in the European theater.
ORGANIZATION
The 31st Security Forces Squadron is composed of more than 500 active duty, civilian, and local national professionals, unified in their mission to deliver undeniable security and defense. The unit is structured into five specialized staff functions: S1: Commander's Support, ensuring operational continuity and administrative excellence. S2: Investigations and Anti-Terrorism, delivering intelligence-driven threat mitigation and countermeasures. S3: Operations and Training, maintaining tactical readiness and operational superiority. S4: Mobility and Resources, ensuring rapid deployment and logistical sustainment. S5: Plans and Administration, driving strategic planning and mission execution. The 31st SFS operates under the 31st Mission Support Group, 31st Fighter Wing, and is strategically positioned at Aviano Air Base, Italy, to provide security and defense for U.S. Air Force operations in Europe.
HISTORY
The 31st Security Forces Squadron originated as Squadron B, 31st Airdrome Group on Nov. 6, 1947 and was changed to the 31st Air Police Squadron on June 15, 1948. The squadron later became the 31st Security Police Squadron on June 9, 1967. The unit has been stationed at Turner Field (later AFB), Ga.; Tuy Hoa AB, South Vietnam; and Homestead AFB, Fla.
The unit carries the following honors:
Campaign Streamers:
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase II 1967-1968
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase III 1968
Vietnam Air Offensive, Phase IV 1968-1969
Tet 69/Counteroffensive 1969
Vietnam Summer/Fall 1969
Vietnam Winter/Spring 1969-1970
Sanctuary Counteroffensive 1970
Southwest Monsoon 1970
Decorations:
Presidential Unit Citation: Vietnam, May 1 to Dec. 31, 1968
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Combat "V' Device: July 15, 1967 to April 30, 1968
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm: Jan. 1, 1968 to May 19, 1969
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award:
April 1, 1994 to April 1, 1996
April 2, 1996 to April 1, 1998
March 24, 1998 to June 10, 1999
March 24 to June 10, 1999
Oct. 1, 2000 to Oct. 1, 2002
Oct. 2, 2002 to Sept. 30, 2004
MAJCOM Best Large SF Unit 2018 & 2024