FEBRUARY 2019
Action Items:
Informational Items:
SEPTEMBER 2019
JUNE 2019
BLUF: Although both SFG and MSG have training programs in place, there is continuous work to refine the structure. Specific to FSS, as requested, there are three different “training days”: 1. FSS Warrior/Training Day (first Thursday), 2. MSG Warrior Day (third Thursday), and 3. MAFFO Day (occurs on a schedule specific to MAFFO). Good info for all of us to know.
DISCUSSION: Airmen assigned to MAFFO are in 1 of 4 status’ at any given time (1. Tripped Out, 2. Protected Days Off, 3. MAFFO Day (training/office work), 4. Official Leave.) The intent for MAFFO day is more than just “training,” it is for dedicated white space on the Airmen’s schedule to accomplish a multitude of requirements which include: training, medical appointments, general housekeeping tasks at MAFFO, and other appointments/tasks that cannot be accomplished while in the field/tripped-out; and these include items that is preferred for them not to accomplish on their protected days off. Training includes: CDC studying/training, executing MAF inventories, accounting, storeroom ops, food handlers training, ServSafe, physical fitness, MAF site inspections and basic housekeeping. Additionally, FSS incorporate SABC, CPR/AED and Home Station Readiness training because the Airmen assigned to MAFFO may not be able to participate in the FSS or MSG Warrior/Training Days. Reference cross-sharing across sections, training days are also used to assist members in CDCs, based on the volume they are studying, to rotate to another section to gain more hands-on experience within that volume (i.e. if they are studying fitness, the intent is for the Airmen to go to the Fitness center).
WAY FORWARD: It can be done better. Both SFG and MSG are developing more detailed training plans and will engage with the CEM reference finalization and implementation. Flight leadership will reemphasize the importance of properly utilizing MAFFO days for their intended purpose. This will, however, include tasks/duties outside of the scope of ‘training,’ but must be accomplished to keep the mission going. Additionally, across the squadrons, MSG has an integrated “MSG Warrior Day.” Warrior Day is planned in conjunction with leads from all MSG units, with leads planning training for the group and/or squadron specific training. We have to try to minimize class time and PowerPoint during Warrior Days. The majority of the training is hands on items such as land navigation, use of force, Warrior Ethos Challenge, etc. training will continue to be ramped up as it moves towards Phase I & II type exercises in the MSG this fall. This will be revisited later this quarter. OPEN.
BLUF: This is a numbers problem that has to be managed. The majority of Services Airmen positions are at MAFFO, and unfortunately there are not enough billets in the other FSS sections for one-for-one duty rotations. Recently, there has been high turnover in MAFFO duty positions for various reasons. In that same time, only 3-4 personnel have rotated back to MAFFO who have already completed tours in order to fill the gap. Additionally, based on inbounds, there are approximately 16-19 personnel assigned to main base who have never been assigned to MAFFO. The rotation planning will continue to be carefully worked.
DISCUSSION: There are 100 3F1 billets in the FSS (MAFFO: 61, DFAC: 21, Fitness: 15, Lodging: 3, Community Services Flight: 3). In FY20, the squadron will lose the three billets assigned to lodging and should move under the Community Services Flight. Within the Sustainment Flight (FSV), 82 of 100 billets are food service related. Ideally, it is preferred to have Airmen assigned to MAFFO no greater than two years. The high turnover, however, has resulted in some Airmen needing to stay at MAFFO longer, or having to rotate Airmen back to MAFFO after already completing a tour. Previously, FSS engaged with AFGSC and AFSVC regarding the possibility of Missile Chefs being a controlled tour. However, based on how personnel have to be rotated between main-base and MAFFO, it was concluded this was not the right way forward. It was considered if 3F1 positions should be a code 50 to force a mandatory move at a certain point of time, but this only impacts their total time on station. This still could potentially mean an Airman may be at MAFFO longer than two years, or will rotate back if required. Additionally, the core lengths (12 months and 18 months) make it more difficult to rotate Airmen in/out of sections. It is projected the career field will reduce the 18 month requirement to 12 months, just waiting on final guidance. This will help with some of the issues, but not all.
WAY FORWARD: The rotation planning will continue to be carefully worked. The MAFFO mission must be filled 100% and is the one area within the FSS/FSV flight that cannot be risked. Unfortunately, due to high turnover, Airmen will have to remain at MAFFO longer or rotate back in order to execute the mission. The command is dedicated to continuing its best efforts to maintain a fair and equitable rotation plan to limit the number of Airmen who may stay at MAFFO past the 2-year point. MSG will better communicate with Airmen to ensure everyone understands the current situation and the expectations. CLOSED.
BLUF: Dorm Management walked through each room in Bldg. 838 to assess the living conditions and the report of possible mold. They found that there was not a visible case of mold in any of the dorm rooms. In addition, the CE team made contact with 12 individuals and asked if they had any concerns. Nobody reported any issues to the team, but some mildew from damp conditions was noticed.
WAY FORWARD: Dorm Management will send an email to all of the residents in Dorm 838 informing them to have their A/C constantly running between 68-72 degrees. This will aid in dehumidifying the rooms to eliminate mildew. There were quite a few A/C units with filters that had not been cleaned and were clogged. The dirty filters inhibit airflow throughout the room. Dorm Management will ensure Airmen are educated on how to accomplish the filter cleaning. MSG also contacted Bioenvironmental on the concern, but after the site visit no issues were noted. Dorm 838 is far from an ideal dorm. However, dorm requirements drive the use of this facility. Conditions will continue to be monitored. OPEN.
BLUF: Participation in the program is determined during the initial enlistment. Enrollment in the Enlisted College Loan Repayment Program (ECLRP) must be annotated as part of the enlistment contract on the AF Form 3008, Supplement to Enlistment Agreement. If not annotated on their enlistment contract, there’s no provision that would allow an Airmen to ‘opt-in’ to the program after signing their enlistment contract with their Recruiter.
DISCUSSION: The program is only available for non-prior service active-duty enlisted Airmen. Airmen must have entered AD on/or after 5 May 2000 (no exceptions). The ECLRP statement must be clearly annotated on the AF Form 3008. Program pays up to $10,000 over 3-year period, minus taxes. As of 1 Oct 2013, Airmen are awarded one of the seven eligible AFSCs (listed below). The remaining pool of eligible Airmen would be very small and limited to those who haven’t used the program, but based on above guidance would still need annotation on the AF Form 3008.
WAY FORWARD: The education team is looking into all the programs similar in nature to offset student loans that can be shared with supervisors. Additionally, if Airmen need assistance with financial planning, financial advisors at the A&FRC stand ready to assist Airmen with their financial literacy and help create budgets/research avenues in repaying debts. CLOSED.