Command Post combines ACC/AMC ops, gets new technology and a facelift

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Carolyn Viss
  • 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Dyess' command post was recently re-configured to combine the 7th Bomb Wing and 317th Airlift Group's CP personnel, update technology, and provide a better work environment for a highly-demanding career field. 

The more than six-month, $350,000 renovation included installation of all-new computer monitors, a new phone system, better furniture, paint and carpet, and 50 percent more space for 26 controllers to operate in. 

"The technology we were using before was much like the stuff you'd see on the movie 'Dr. Strangelove,'" said Maj. Kurt Scheible, 7th Bomb Wing director of command and control. "The space is now much more efficient, and the technology is not only current but also future command post-oriented. We needed to make sure that Col. (Timothy) Ray (7th BW commander) and now Col. (Kevin) Jackson (317th AG commander) are able to communicate quickly and easily and be up-to-date on important operations." 

The command post is what Maj. Scheible called the "nerve center" of all base command and control communications, from following flights (including training sorties) and message traffic to reporting base events. Controllers produce crew alerts, making sure crew members are notified of their active and rest periods, record flight maintenance, and even ensure flight meals are delivered. 

"It's an intense, demanding job," said Master Sgt. Tyrone Eugene, CP noncommissioned officer in charge. "Controllers are on the consoles for eight- to 12-hour shifts, so my No. 1 priority for upgrading the command post was morale. The World War II-style furniture and technology were de-motivating. Now, Airmen take pride in their work center, which causes their production to increase as well." 

A small break area in the main room offers momentary relief from the pace of the job and allows Airmen to stand up and take a deep breath without going very far or needing permission to leave, Major Scheible said. Nineteen-inch, double computer monitors replaced the old 15-inch CRT-style monitors, making computer work more comfortable and less straining on the eyes. 

The next plan is to put up a "video wall" of plasma T.V. screens that will allow controllers to monitor the base at a glance. These upgrades aid in Air Force Smart Operations implementation. 

"We're the lead base-level unit for joint force exercises," Major Scheible said. "With these renovations, we're ready to take on the future demands of tomorrow's command posts." 

Sergeant Eugene basically made the renovation happen, Major Scheible said. He choreographed the detailed 'dance' of working with the 7th Contracting Squadron and private contracting companies to make sure everything got done smoothly and on time.
 
"Sergeant Eugene was in tune to the fact that with combined ACC and AMC units we have a unique mission to support," Major Scheible said. "We (Dyess) and Pope are the only Air Force bases with ACC/AMC host/tenant unit relationships, and with all this going on it was absolutely necessary to make everyone's lives easier and be ready for the mission."