SAC Elite Guard

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The SAC Elite Guard was a military police unit established in December, 1956 to provide security at the headquarters of the Strategic Air Command of the United States Air Force. Established by order of General Curtis E. LeMay, the unit was initially known as Detachment “A” of the 3902nd Air Police Squadron at Offutt Air Force Base.

SAC Elite Guardsman, Offutt AFB, Nebraska

SAC Elite Guard Association Logo

The unit was attired in a distinctive and unique uniform. Its mission was threefold. Primarily, Detachment “A” would be responsible to provide stringent security for the SAC Headquarters and its resources. The second portion of their mission was to provide personal protection for the Commander and Vice Commander in chief of the Strategic Air Command and their assembled staff. It also had a ceremonial function: acting as an Official Strategic Air command Representative at military and civic functions requiring military unit participation would be the third portion of the unit’s overall mission.

The special unit was created after LeMay found an SAC base guarded by a "air policeman armed with a ham sandwich."

General LeMay determined that an additional element, to act as the official Drill team for the Strategic Air Command was needed. In 1957 General LeMay and General Wade and the Commander for the 3902nd Air Police Squadron led a drive to select and procure a uniform of distinction. The initial uniform was comprised of a tan herringbone twill khaki trousers and shirts with jump boots, white scarves and white laces. The addition of a cross draw .38 revolver and holster combined with a the blue beret helped the unit to assume an air of individuality.

Through the years, changes in Air Force dress standards necessitated changing the colors and combination of this unique uniform. While the drill team was disbanded in 1969 the guard’s primary mission continued with added responsibility for the monthly Changing of the Guard ceremony, funeral details, civic events and formal military functions. The Strategic Air Command stood down in 1992, with USSTRATCOM replacing the Command.