Services, Mission Support Squadron merge, become 7th Force Support Squadron

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. A.C. Eggman
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- --  In line with the Air Force-wide merger of services and mission support squadrons, Dyess leadership officially combined two squadrons and formed the 7th Force Support Squadron during a ceremony here July 8. 

The 7th Services Squadron was inactivated and the 7th Mission Support Squadron was redesignated as the 7th FSS, which will remain a part of the 7th Mission Support Group. 

Air Force leaders initiated the merger to maximize customer service, reduce costs inherent with maintaining separate organizations and to modernize processes. 

"This is a significant event," said Col. James Hammes, 7th Mission Support Group commander. "We witnessed a small piece of Dyess history today." 

Colonel Hammes praised the achievements of the outgoing 7th Services Squadron commander, Maj. Eileen Kirkland, and 7th Mission Support Squadron commander, Maj. Christopher Parrish, before welcoming the new 7th FSS commander, Maj. Nolan Corpuz. 

"These great Americans achieved and accomplished some amazing things for Dyess and the Air Force," said Colonel Hammes. 

The colonel spoke of the numerous contributions Major Kirkland accomplished during her recent deployment to Kuwait in support of the Global War on Terror, as well as her many achievements she completed during her one-year tour at Dyess. Some of those accomplishments include completely renovating the bowling center, leading the fitness center to its fourth consecutive five-star rating, and increasing the size of the youth center by nearly 11,000 square feet. 

"These programs will serve our families well for years to come," the colonel said. "Thank you for finishing your squadron responsibilities in an outstanding fashion." 

Major Kirkland will go on to attend the Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala. 

The colonel continued on to praise Major Parrish, as well. 

"Major Parrish did an outstanding job as the mission support squadron commander," he said. Some of the major's accomplishments include overseeing numerous programs for the wing commander, managing three squadrons, acquiring a million dollars for equipment, and winning the 2007 Air Combat Command Mission Support Squadron of the Year. 

"(Majors Kirkland and Parrish) executed their missions and enhanced Team Dyess," said Colonel Hammes. "Without people like them, we would not be able to support the Global War on Terror." 

The colonel then welcomed Major Corpuz and his family to Dyess and Abilene. "His great background will no doubt lead to his success here, and that's why we hired him," said the colonel. 

As the 7th FSS commander, Major Corpuz will oversee five flights: Force development, manpower and personnel, Airmen and family services, sustainment services and community services. 

"I've been part of the Air Force my entire life, but nothing can compare to the magnitude of commanding a squadron" said Major Corpuz. "I look forward to serving with you and becoming a part of this proud family."