Charge it: Utilizing the GPC program

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Mike Tryon
  • 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs
F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. --  Everything used by the military was purchased by someone, and chances are those items were paid for using the Government Purchase Card.

On F. E. Warren, there are approximately 250 people who are part of the GPC program as either a card holder, approving official or a resource advisor. One man, assigned to the 90th Contracting Squadron is responsible for the entire program: Larry Barto, 90th Missile Wing GPC coordinator.

"Last fiscal year, we spent $10.5 million as a wing over 13.5 thousand transactions," Barto said. "The Air Force as a whole spent about $1.5 billion."

In every unit, there are card holders and approving officials who are responsible for making the purchases necessary for mission completion.

"If you're a part of the GPC program, as a card holder or approving official and you have a question about the program or if you're authorized to make a certain purchase, reference the Air Force Instruction or talk to your resource advisor," Barto said. "People have gotten into some serious trouble before for not following the guidance and instructions. That trouble includes fines and even potential jail time."

Without the program, people would still be able to acquire day-to-day items; however, it would take a long time to get them, Barto said.

"The Air Force realizes a cost savings through this Simplified Acquisition Process versus having a contract written for everything we need to purchase," Barto said.

What that means is without the GPC program, the 90th Contracting Squadron -- as well as other contracting squadrons across the Air Force -- would have to write a contract for every potential purchase military members would need to make, he explained. Those purchases could range from buying pens, toner and paper to buying office furniture and cold weather gear.

"If you're part of the program, the best thing you can do is to comply with the rules and regulations of the program," Barto said. "Also, ensure you have all of your documentation in order and complete the program requirements in a timely manner."

For questions about the GPC program, call Larry Barto at 773-6089.