by PH2 Todd Frantom
The events of Sept. 11, 2001, have changed how Americans view national security. The Navy has also changed the way they do business among their security forces. Now courageous patriots have an opportunity to join the ranks of the anti-terrorist/force protection team, Mobile Security Detachment (MSD).

To become part of this specialized unit, individuals must first finish a Final Evaluation Problem (FEP).

The force takes to the air, land and sea, working under scenarios that can break the spirit of the most hardened warrior.

“After my ‘A’ school I chose the MSD force because they promised a lot of training and this was a new form of Navy security,” said Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Christine DeLeon.

These armed Sailors are no run-of-the-mill security guards. They are well-trained warriors focused on protecting DOD high-value assets, such as ships, cargo and people, against terrorist attacks, at sea and on land. The expeditionary force works where U.S. shore infrastructure does not exist, which means they must be highly deployable and ready to move at a moment’s notice.

They go through hundreds of hours of preparation and several different schools before attending the final test. Training includes topics such as Army Sentry, close combat weapons, hand-to-hand combat and combat lifesaving to name a few.

“The training is rigorous and what we go through can test the human spirit,” said DeLeon.

“We faced drill after drill, from peaceful demonstrations to chemical/biological attacks.”

Everything the Sailors go through during their final evaluation is set up to simulate when the real world events turn ugly. The mobile security force must be vigilant in how they handle what is literally thrown at them. These Sailors must think “outside the box,” while working as a cohesive unit.

First, they must pack out and convoy to a secured location. They have four hours to set up a secure base camp.

“I got really sick of concertina razor wire or C. wire,” chuckled DeLeon.

“Like chickens with our heads cut off, we worked all hours setting up a perimeter. We put up triple strands of C. wire and set vehicle inspection zones as well as personal inspection areas. Several crews guarded weapons and stations with ballistic shields, [and].50 calibers on these locations.”

Crews worked together to secure a pier with deployed boat teams for waterside protection. Other crews back up the boats and help protect a high-value asset, such

as a ship.

A Military Sealift Command ship played the role of a high-value asset, while a plane was brought in to further enhance realism.

“Once we had a secure home, the watches began,” said DeLeon.

“They were grueling. Imagine spending 18 hours a day staring at the same boring sights, waiting for something to happen.

I could feel my mind and body starting to weaken, especially with such extreme circumstances and heat.”