'See first, understand first, act first': New base security zone mirrors deployed sites

The 81st Security Forces Squadron is implementing an integrated defense concept called a base security zone to secure Keesler, which is similar to methods used in bases in Southwest Asia. "Ever since Sept. 11, there's no place within the continental U.S. that shouldn't be thinking this way," said

Keesler medics bring health care to Panama

Three 81st Medical Group physicians took part in a medical readiness training exercise to Panama earlier this summer. Dermatologist Lt. Col. (Dr.) Steven Ritter, family physician Capt. (Dr.) Bryan Farford and pediatrician Capt. (Dr.) Kermit Helo, all assigned to the 81st Medical Operations Squadron,

Base celebrates Air Force birthday with Charlie Daniels Band show

Keesler celebrates the Air Force's 61st birthday with the Charlie Daniels Band, 7 p.m., Sept. 18 on the parade field. A live preshow broadcast by K99.1 Radio's Big D and Bubba is at 6 p.m. The event is free to all Department of Defense identification card holders. Concert-goers should bring blankets

101 Critical Day of Summer: Campaign logs best results in 10 years

The Air Force wrapped up the 101 Critical Days of Summer safety campaign over Labor Day weekend, ending the safest campaign in the last 10 years. The 81st Training Wing didn't report any fatalities or permanently-disabling injuries during the period. There were, however, eight injuries in the 2008

A star is born at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss.

Base shelters provide safe haven from Gustav

About 3,100 storm recovery personnel and students took refuge Sunday at one of six Keesler shelters before Hurricane Gustav made landfall. The other 6,400 family members and non-storm essential personnel evacuated when the 6 a.m. order was given by Col. Greg Touhill, 81st Training Wing