Small office, large presence

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Christopher Reel
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
A small office remains behind the scenes to help keep Tyndall's high-visibility functions and formalities operational.

The wing protocol office supports and coordinates distinguished guests' visits; various official military ceremonies; as well as many other base-wide functions and events. DV visits include the president of the United States, vice president, other U.S. senior leaders, military commanders, foreign leaders and diplomats.

"We are the focal point for all protocol-related responsibilities for the wing commander, planning and executing visits for high-level DVs, official military ceremonies, and various official Tyndall functions and events," said Sandy Fagg, 325th Fighter Wing Protocol chief. "We help to ensure military customs, courtesies and traditions are upheld. We often represent the face of the wing and work to enhance the reputation of the wing, Tyndall and the Air Force."

Though their mission is broad and generally takes place behind the scenes, it is generally orchestrated by two civilians and one military member.

There are currently 17 change of command ceremonies scheduled at Tyndall for 2014, explained Fagg. Protocol traditionally coordinates, supports or assists with the Air Force Ball, the annual awards banquet, recognition and farewell events, graduations, and promotions and retirement ceremonies.

"We arrange official social functions and hold events to educate and/or build relationships with local community leaders," Fagg said.

The number of events fluctuates each year. Most ceremonies and events occur during the duty day; however, many events are held after business hours such as banquets, dinners, official socials and the occasional after-hours arrival of a DV.

"Protocol is really one of those misunderstood jobs in the Air Force," said Staff Sgt. Brittany Pouliot, 325th FW Protocol NCO in charge. "In reality, our job is to ultimately make the fighter wing and its commander look good in the eyes of any visiting DV. It's a challenge day in and day out, because you don't know what the day is going to bring you. We have to be prepared for anything."

Though this type of work can prove to put a lot of pressure on someone, the protocol team seems to have been built for it.

"There is definitely a feeling of satisfaction when an event goes well or a DV visit is successful," said Fagg. "I think it comes from both our office's teamwork and the feeling of accomplishment and in the benefit you can see for your efforts ".

"This also applies when a DV leaves the base and the objectives of the visit have been met and he or she has a better understanding of Tyndall's missions, successes, challenges or needs," Fagg added. "I also really enjoy helping people and being part of a team."

Their success is determined by their knowledge base of the Air Force and their attention to detail.

"Whether it's coordinating a change of command, hosting the state governor or simply dropping off a welcome note to a visiting DV's room, everything is dependent on attention to detail," Pouliot said. "Being in protocol really gives you a bigger perspective on the Air Force as a whole...and it allows you to gain that experience to shape you into a better leader. The skills and knowledge I've attained since working in this position will definitely help me in my Air Force career."

Pouliot will soon be relocated to an assignment in South Korea.

"I think this job is a great stepping stone for me," said Senior Airman Melanie Maier, who will be filling Pouliot's position when she leaves. "Being a young Airman sitting in a staff or technical sergeant's position, I have been blessed with a great opportunity. This position will add to my foundation of growing into a strong leader and NCO. I am very happy and grateful that Ms. Sandy gave me the opportunity to be part of the protocol team!"

During Maier's time in protocol, she will have the opportunity to be involved in many high-level events.

"Since I arrived in February 2009, our team has coordinated, supported or assisted with many unique events such as a tour for 21 host-nation civic leaders from Europe," explained Fagg. "We planned and executed the visit of the Secretary of the Air Force and Chief of Staff of the Air Force and assisted with the arrival and departure plans for President Barack Obama and family."

Other events protocol helped coordinate were the Gulf Coast Salute Air Shows, tours for senators, the Florida Base Commanders' Meeting hosted by Governor Rick Scott for 53 Florida installation commanders and state agency personnel, and aided in multiple visits by Air Force Major Command commanders.

"It's hard to pinpoint a specific favorite type of event," Fagg said. "But, I have enjoyed working at events or leading tours and hearing briefings or seeing our Airman at work. It has allowed me to learn about many of Tyndall's unique missions."