McConnell AFB leadership backs civilian workforce amidst sequestration

Published March 14, 2013
By 2nd Lt. Jessica Brown
22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- More than 500 McConnell Air Force Base civilians attended a commander's call here March 13, to learn more about civilian furloughs that are scheduled to begin April 26.

Col. Ricky Rupp, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander, held the all-call to share the latest information regarding sequestration and civilian furloughs.

"This will have a devastating effect on the 527 civilians who support our day-to-day mission if the furloughs do come to pass," said Rupp. "This includes 364 civilians from the 22nd ARW and 163 civilians with the 931st Air Refueling Group."

Maj. Jack Dickenson, 22nd Comptroller Squadron commander, and Krista Jackson, 22nd ARW personnel officer, were also available to brief attendees regarding the possible cuts.

"If Congress fails to end sequestration, 527 civilians here at McConnell AFB will feel the pinch," said Jackson. "No one is exempt. This includes our firefighters, medical personnel and security forces."

Civilian Department of Defense employees are preparing to be furloughed for 22 non-consecutive days, which will result in a 20 percent pay decrease, said Jackson.

"Whether you're a civilian or not, if these furloughs take place, you will be affected," said Jackson. "Those who work at the commissary, child development center and the Airmen and Family Readiness Center will also be forced to take an additional day off every week."

These sorts of cuts can lead to financial issues and may even cause great stress on employees, said Jackson.

Briefers encouraged attendees to seek assistance if they feel stressed or discouraged.

"There are a number of agencies on base who stand ready to assist with issues ranging from budgeting to military life consultations," said Jackson. "The A&FRC has financial and budgeting counseling available and stands ready to assist if needed."

After the briefing, Rupp facilitated a question and answer session with attendees.

Questions ranged from the change in CDC hours to how these potential cuts could affect retirements, said Jackson.

Many McConnell AFB group and squadron commanders attended the all-call to show support for the civilian workforce.

"I want you all to know we care about you and you're not alone," said Rupp. "We want to be open, honest and transparent with all the information we have so that you have everything necessary to plan for this, if it occurs."

Cuts could last to the end of the fiscal year in September. Currently there are more than 800,000 DoD civilian workers.