Gate-to-gate security depends on US Protect Published July 21, 2006 By 16th Security Forces Squadron 16th SFS HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Team Hurlburt is made up of various components such as active-duty members, Guard and Reserve, retirees, civilians and contractors. Each of these components should be respected in their individual positions and authority. US Protect contractors have executive authority, which means their authority stems directly from the installation commander, the same as any security forces Airman. “The contracted security guards at the gates are here to protect and secure everyone here at Hurlburt Field,” said Col. Michael Smietana, 16th Mission Support Group. “They’re professional and extremely competent in their duties. Everyone entering the base should comply with their direction and treat them as they would any member of the 16th SFS. Anything less just makes their job tougher and potentially compromises the security of our missions. People not complying with their direction will be dealt with appropriately.” Military members who fail to follow directions from security forces Airmen or contracted security guards can be charged with dereliction of duty and violation of a lawful order. These charges can result in non-judicial punishment or a letter of reprimand. “Collectively, our guards bring countless years of both military and law enforcement experience and should be treated with the same degree of respect as any other member of the Security Forces squadron,” said Maj. Marc Sheie, 16th SFS commander.