Small unit -- big accomplishment

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Christopher Reel
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  A three person team, 325th Fighter Wing Protocol, received the George Washington Award for Protocol Excellence at the Air Education and Training Command level recently.

The Protocol office is responsible for, but not limited to, orchestrating official base events and dignitary visits, as well as advising on etiquette and military customs and courtesies.

"We have a strong team," said Ms. Patty Fackler, 325th FW Protocol deputy chief. "A protocol office is the keeper of Air Force customs and culture, providing guidance based on regulations and instructions to the wing as well as other Tyndall organizations. We take that responsibility very seriously, always striving to help promote a positive image for the AF and for Team Tyndall."

During the last year, Protocol professionally planned and executed approximately 88 events, and managed accommodations and support for more than 850 distinguished visitors to the base.

"We are blessed to have an outstanding network of support across Team Tyndall," said Ms. Fackler. "From commanders to base secretaries and in between - it may sound cliché, but we really couldn't do it without their help."

Protocol hosted many high-level visitors during the past year, such as the Florida governor, the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, Environment and Logistics, the Air Combat Command commander, and many other high-ranking personnel.

In addition to the numerous events, distinguished visitors and responsibilities, the office has been recognized by the national-level NCO Association for the unique World War II Medallion presentation ceremonies. More than 22 veterans have been honored this year and the program continues to be a model program for other bases.

"The WW II Medallion presentation ceremony was especially rewarding," said Ms. Sandy Fagg, 325th Protocol chief. "It was heartwarming to see the pride and appreciation of these special Americans as they were recognized by the NCO Association and our senior military leaders in front of family members and community leaders."

Each event, ceremony or visit the office plans for is rewarding in that the benefits of a successful event are apparent immediately, explained Fagg.

"We are a small office, and a lot of our work is behind the scenes. So it is good to have an official thank you," said Tech. Sgt. Christi Skiles, 325th FW Protocol NCO in charge. "It is always nice to get 'a pat on the back' for doing a good job."