OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- Personnel entering and exiting the installation will notice changes to gate operations beginning immediately after Labor Day.
Starting Sept. 3, 2019, the Kenney Gate will close daily from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following day, while the STRATCOM Gate’s vehicle search pit will now be closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
The changes are designed to provide the 55th Wing with an increase in base defense flexible response options while giving the 55th Security Forces Squadron an opportunity to improve deliberate leader development and enhance training and mission readiness.
“This will enable our defenders to increase on-shift training as well as strengthen response capabilities with a minimal impact on the base,” said Col. Gavin Marks, 55th Wing commander. “Given their expeditionary demands, we want to use their in-garrison time as effectively as possible.”
Personnel should also note that the STRATCOM Gate will remain open 24 hours a day and 55th SFS personnel can utilize lane five of that gate for vehicle inspections as needed. In addition, there are no changes to the hours of the Bellevue Gate.
“We appreciate the base community’s flexibility as we make these changes to enhance our unit and individual capabilities.” said Lt. Col. Michael Cheatham, 55th SFS commander. “The goal of this is to maximize our defenders’ valuable training time with as little of an impact on the base as possible.”
The changes also bring the 55th SFS in-line with the vision of the Air Force’s director of Security Forces, Brig. Gen. Andrea Tullos, to increase homeland readiness.
“We are a fighting force dedicated to the wing’s mission,” said Cheatham. “Should a situation arise where there is a shift in traffic pattern or increased flow, our flight chiefs are empowered to make adjustments as needed to accommodate those needs.”
These small changes will save the 55th SFS 280 man hours a week while increasing their lethality.