This paper analyzes how USAF Security Forces possess unique capabilities which are valuable in a counterinsurgency environment and examines the potential for a more effective, joint counterinsurgency force. Focusing on recent case studies in Iraq, personal interviews and accounts are used to examine counterinsurgency and base defense operations at Balad AB and Bashur AB. A brief review of air base defense operations in a counterinsurgency environment during Vietnam is also provided to determine if lessons have been learned and applied. In an effort to find the proper composition of a joint counterinsurgency force, expectations from the 2006 QDR are discussed as well as the common neglect for USAF ground combat force capabilities. The paper also reviews joint doctrine on counterinsurgency operations and air base defense focusing on what specific capabilities are most critical to success.