In the world of military excellence, few programs stand out as prominently as the Delta Force Lima initiative at Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida. Established on January 31, 2024, this prestigious program has now completed its first full year of operation, continuing to set the standard for elite performance within the Air Force security forces community.

The Delta Force Lima initiative selects a special cadre of eight defenders from the 325th Security Forces Squadron (SFS) who exemplify extraordinary professionalism, immaculate dress and appearance, precise adherence to customs and courtesies, and exceptional base defense capabilities. These chosen few receive distinctive brassards and special duty assignments for six-month rotations.

Origins and Significance

The program's name carries profound meaning within the Tyndall community. Delta Force Lima derives its name from the initials of Airman 1st Class Dayvon Larry, a dedicated 325th SFS defender who tragically lost his life in an off-duty incident in April 2023. The initiative honors Larry's memory by promoting the culture of excellence and pride in security forces duties that he consistently demonstrated throughout his service.

"Larry was a special individual who brought immense value to the team," explained Technical Sergeant George Clark, 325th SFS resources advisor, in an interview earlier this year. "Our commander established Delta Lima to highlight Airmen who display the qualities that made Larry stand out amongst his peers."

The program aligns perfectly with one of Major General Thomas Sherman's primary focus areas as Director of Security Forces for the U.S. Air Force: enriching unit culture. Through Delta Force Lima, the 325th SFS has created a tangible way to recognize and promote exceptional performance.

Selection Process and Standards

The qualification process for Delta Force Lima candidates is intentionally rigorous, reflecting the elite nature of the program. Prerequisites include:

• Scoring 90% or higher on physical fitness tests

• Receiving a recommendation from their flight chief

• Demonstrating exceptional professionalism in daily duties

• Maintaining impeccable appearance and conduct standards

After meeting these qualifications, candidates appear before a selection board chaired by Chief Master Sergeant Benjamin Seekell, the 325th SFS senior enlisted leader. Those selected participate in a formal brassard presentation ceremony, marking their entry into this distinguished group.

"We hold ourselves to high standards and keep each other accountable," shared Airman 1st Class Jonathan Neal, a 325th SFS patrolman and Delta Force Lima member. "I wear my brassard every day with pride and am always happy to showcase it because of how proud I am of myself and the group with me."

Honoring Tradition and Heritage

The wearing of brassards carries significant historical weight in military tradition, identifying distinctive groups assigned to special duties. The Delta Force Lima program's use of numbered brassards connects directly to Team Tyndall's heritage. On September 1, 1950, the first Air Police school was established at Tyndall Air Force Base, where Air Police were issued brassards upon graduation.

In the Delta Force Lima program, brassard #1 remains permanently reserved in honor of Airman Larry. The remaining brassards stay linked to the members who wear them, serving as both tokens of appreciation and daily reminders of the Air Force core value: excellence in all we do.

Impact and Future Development

As the program enters its second year in 2025, its impact continues to grow beyond the security forces squadron. Senior Airman Joshua Barnes, a Delta Force Lima member, noted, "Throughout these months, I've aimed to set high standards in everything I do, even in small instances like greeting someone at the gate or ensuring our appearance standards remain impeccable. I'm pleased to see other units across the base being inspired by what we've accomplished."

The program offers tangible benefits beyond recognition. After completing their rotation, Delta Force Lima defenders receive priority consideration for advanced skills training courses, including the Tactical Defender course, Counter Sniper Engagement course, and the Nuclear Convoy course.

Chief Seekell emphasized that the program's ultimate goal extends beyond temporary recognition: "Sometimes all we need to push through our self-imposed barriers is a little nudge. I hope this is the change they need to surge forward to new heights and inspire those who will come after."

A Family's Perspective

Perhaps the most meaningful endorsement of the Delta Force Lima program comes from those closest to its namesake. "This program has been very moving," said Tameka Williams, Dayvon Larry's sister. "Dayvon would always go out of his way to help others or be a role model. To know that people were inspired by his dedication and commitment and are replicating that energy means everything to me. Honoring fallen service members regardless of branch, job or rank is crucial. Delta Lima is a way to tribute them and keep the legacy going."

As 2025 progresses, the Delta Force Lima initiative continues to evolve, inspiring excellence not only within Tyndall Air Force Base but potentially serving as a model for similar recognition programs across military installations nationwide. Through this thoughtful program, the spirit of excellence embodied by Airman Larry lives on, challenging each new generation of defenders to reach for higher standards of service and dedication.