YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea — The covert Army special operations “Red Team” came to Osan earlier this month to assess base force-protection and anti-terrorism measures.
Lt. Collette Smith, 51st Fighter Wing force-protection and anti-terrorism officer in charge, said the visit was one of three evaluations conducted here this month.
“Basically, they are just observing from a distance covertly, so they are not walking around in uniform,” Smith said.
The team poked around cars ensuring doors were locked to prevent theft of uniform items or ID cards, Smith said. They also eavesdropped in bars, listening to servicemembers’ conversations.
Osan’s operational and physical security was also examined, Smith said.
Although assessment results are classified, they will be used to help the base obtain funds for improvements.
“They do make recommendations, but what they are doing is making the leadership and myself aware of any vulnerabilities,” Smith said.
Osan was recently named the best anti-terrorism and force-protection installation in Pacific Air Forces and the Pacific Command. As a result, it is now competing at the Defense Department level for recognition, Smith said.
U.S. Forces Korea and the Air Force also assessed Osan earlier this month, Smith said. Those evaluations were performed in uniform and focused on operations and procedures.
