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AFSO 21 streamlined process eases deployment

  • Published
  • By 379th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  Deploying Airmen had an easier transition into the area of responsibility this January due to the 379th Expeditionary Logistics Squadron Readiness Flight revamp of the way the Aerial Port of Debarkation processes Airmen moving in and out of the AOR.

Fellow Airmen redeploying this January may not have recognized it as the same place they passed through previously.

When Air Force personnel arrive at the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, they are briefed on wing policies, the mobility process and their flight information in the Air Force Transient Reception Control Center.

Transients receive or return their mobility bags, body armor and first aid kits at the Expeditionary Theater Distribution Center. Prior to leaving the secure area, they turn in any weapons at the transient armory.

"Reorganization started by moving the distribution center return tent next to the reception control center, eliminating the need to carry two or more mobility bags and excess gear through customs," said Capt. David Hansell, 379 Air Expeditionary Wing installation deployment officer. This is an instant benefit for the passengers as they redeploy home."
Additionally, as a result of an Air Force Smart Operations 21 discussion, the issue tent process was enhanced by initiating the use of numbered metal seals.

"These numbers are kept in our database and upon an individual's return the seal is checked for integrity. If the seal is not broken then an inventory is not required. This improvement alone saves over 570 man hours per AEF cycle," said Captain Hansell.

Relocating the transient armory to the south side of the reception control center removed a bottleneck outside customs allowing personnel to easily move throughout the reception area.

Furthermore, as a result of doubling its original size, the transient armory can now process chalks more efficiently and the awaiting passengers have an area to wait in away from the baggage yard.

While remaining in the same location, the Air Force Transient Reception Control Center adopted new workstations, which were discarded from another unit and saved the center $40,000.

According to Captain Hansell, the workstations increased customer service, produced a more professional environment and patriotic murals were also added to increased morale.

"The result of this reorganization will be appreciated by the 13,000 personnel processing through here each rotation," Captain Hansell said. "However, the many contributors from the 379th Expeditionary Civil Engineer and Communications squadrons should be recognized for helping to ease the transition for fellow Airmen deploying up-range."