MSS, SVS merger coming next summer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Nestor Cruz
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  The 18th Mission Support Squadron will soon merge with the 18th Services Squadron to create a new, single, streamlined organization. 

The combined units will become the 18th Force Support Squadron, which will maximize manpower efficiency while still providing world-class customer service. 

"This merger is driven by manpower cuts from Program Budget Decision 720," said Lt. Col. Peter Warner, 18th MSS commander. "We're going to consolidate what resources remain to better serve our Airmen." 

The 18th FSS will consist of five flights: force development, manpower and personnel, Airman and family services, sustainment services and community services. 

As a precursor to the merger, the 18th MSS is currently consolidating all wing commander's support staffs and bringing them into the Military Personnel Element. 

"Many years ago, we had a consolidated personnel office and the squadrons didn't have CSS's," said Colonel Warner. So everything was done at the MPF. 

The commander said the CSS merger is part of the process to pave the way for the bigger merger with SVS. 

"We've already briefed wing leadership about the CSS merger and FSS, which is the first step with anything," said Colonel Warner. "The group commanders are aware we're taking the CSS's. Now we're waiting for our funding package to go through for furniture, computers, building renovations, etc." 

Colonel Warner said that although there is plenty of space at the MSS building, renovations are necessary to accommodate everyone and create a professional workplace. 

For 18th SVS Airmen, merging with MSS will mean a more streamlined way of doing business not just here but also at deployed locations. 

"We're looking forward to seeing a considerable synergy with our folks at Personnel Support for Contingency Operations when we deploy," said Chief Master Sgt. Aubrey Harvey, 18th SVS chief enlisted manager. "Since we will be working under the same roof, this will enhance our capability to better serve our customers." PERSCO members are tasked to deploy with and account for all deploying Airmen. 

Although business hours remain the same, MSS Airmen are working longer to ensure the mergers are successful. 

"Our folks are working hard," Colonel Warner said. "Even though business hours are still 7:30 to 4:30, we're working longer to allow for training and administrative work. This squadron will do whatever it takes to make both mergers work for the entire Team Kadena population."