Malmstrom completes vulnerability assessment

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Justin Brockhoff
  • 341st Space Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Team Malmstrom completed a four-day vulnerability assessment by a team of engineering and security specialists from the Air Force Security Forces Center, Sept. 22. The goal of the visits, which typically occur every three years, is to enhance anti-terrorism and security programs that ensure the safety and security of Department of Defense installations. 

While the visit was not geared specifically toward the ICBM mission it took a hard look at the day-to-day business and current posture of Malmstrom's anti-terroism programs. 

"The vulnerability assessment is an opportunity to look at an installation's AT programs and suggest ways we can polish what we're already doing," said Fred Rauch, 341st Space Wing anti-terrorism officer. "There are no grades, no downsides. Everything that comes from this assessment is positive." 

The assessment team covered the entire base and portions of the missile complex to evaluate Malmstrom's numerous anti-terrorism programs and offer a few ways to make the already strong programs even better, according to Mr. Rauch. The point of the visit is not to cause drastic changes to any programs but to look at ways to improve programs for little- or no-cost to the government. 

Once an issue is identified during the assessment, it creates the opportunity for funding through the Combating Terrorism Readiness Initiatives Funds. This provides the opportunity to receive funding in the same fiscal year the issue is identified, instead of having to go through the regular funding process. In many cases suggestions are simple changes that take a little time and no cost to implement. 

"We've received good feedback and many new measures are already in-place as a result of the assessment team's suggestions," added Mr. Rauch. "The team members also gave us a good deal of positive feedback about our programs that exceeded their expectations." 

Teamwork is another reason that Malmstrom performed well during the vulnerability assessment. 

"Ensuring the safety and security Malmstrom's population and resources is one of this wing's highest priorities," said Col. Geo Frazier, 341st Space Wing vice commander. "It directly impacts our ability to effectively perform the mission. During our vulnerability assessment, we were able to showcase an outstanding AT program and that's a direct reflection of the dedication, teamwork and professionalism that our people display everyday." 

Officials offer many suggestions to aid base personnel in supporting our AT posture. Among those measures is the challenge by greeting; a technique of politely approaching someone that looks out of place by asking them who they are and how you can assist them. This is one way to take control of a situation where something may not be right. 

Officials also remind base personnel to stay alert. 

"Everybody can play an active role in AT," added Mr. Rauch. "The best thing to do is stay vigilant of your surroundings and act. If something looks out of place, odds are it is, and then take action by alerting the appropriate authorities." 

Even though no grades are given during this type of visit, Malmstrom did extremely well, added Mr. Rauch. "The assessment team was blown away with how strong many of our programs were," he said. "Success would not be possible without the support and cooperation of everyone at Malmstrom. It's a big win for the whole team."