PA news delivery all Web-based

  • Published
  • By Capt. Paula Bissonette
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
A long-standing tradition will come to an end Dec. 22 when the Dyess Global Warrior is printed for the last time.

The base paper will become an entirely online publication found only on the Dyess public Web site. Public affairs future operations will take a direction that does not allow for lengthy newspaper layout and design processes, so this virtual version is a logical next step.

As with many units, PA has to adapt to changes in manpower and processes. Air Force Smart Operations 21 calls for organizations to determine the best most efficient ways to utilize their personnel and assets. This closer look coupled with force shaping means change for all of everyone. For PA, it means this office can no longer expend the necessary manpower to produce a base newspaper.

Some see change as a good thing and some resist it. The bottom line is, we have to get used to it, our resources are what they are and we have to operate within the parameters set by our Air Force leadership.

In the case of the PA shop, it lost the work group manager to consolidation and half of its manning under PBD720 reductions. This, combined with separations and deployments, leaves us with no choice but to make some necessary changes ... like going to a virtual method of news delivery. This is in line with AFSO-21 instructions to leverage new technologies as well.

The PA story is not unique; many squadrons on base are experiencing the exact same challenges and changes. For example, PA has had to recruit Airmen from around the base to drive buses for our base tours since the 7th Logistics Readiness Squadron's vehicle operators were unavailable due to deployment. All units have limitations and have to come up with smarter ways to do business. Many units are pulling double-duty to support deployments. It's what the Air Force does, and "the show must go on," so to speak.

So thanks to all the units that continue to support PA with tours, drivers, speakers and interviews - PA could not do its job without that support.

For those diehard newspaper fans who prefer to peruse a paper copy, the Abilene Reporter News, The Dyess Global Warrior's publisher, will continue to print and distribute a hybrid base paper. They will call this new product "The Sound of Freedom" as a tribute to the distinct sound Dyess aircraft make as they roar over the skies of Abilene. This new product will include Dyess news, provided by the Public Affairs office, as well as local Abilene news and feature stories. It will also have classifieds and most of the usual information our readers have come to expect.

The Web-based news method allows PA to reach a much wider audience: deployed Airmen, retirees who do not live near the base, personnel on leave or TDY, and others. Since the Web site is accessible from any computer, anyone anywhere can read about the great things happening at Dyess. The public Web address is www.dyess.af.mil.