BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- Col. Steven Kirkpatrick, 307th Bomb Wing commander, issued his third unit- specific update on events surrounding COVID-19 here on March 20.
In an email to Reserve Citizen Airmen of the 307th Bomb Wing, he outlined travel updates for those on orders and offered new channels of communication.
Travel
Kirkpatrick said any Airman on orders could now travel up to six hours from their home of record to Barksdale Air Force Base, La. or Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. Once in place, Airman can go no further than one hour from their duty station for the duration of their orders.
In his email, he urged caution while traveling to and from duty locations.
“We need to practice solid Operational Risk Management to ensure we are taking all measures to not spread the disease during the commute and while on duty,” he said. “We are committed to continuing the mission and ensuring we continue to have a ready reserve.”
Communication
Kirkpatrick also emphasized the need for communication between Reserve Citizen Airmen and their leadership.
“It's important for you to stay in touch with your supervisors and squadron leadership during this time,” he said. “If something is going on in your life, don’t hesitate to reach out.”
As part of that effort, Kirkpatrick established a question and answer segment on the wing’s Facebook page, answering the first question in his email, as well. The text of the email, gave both the full question and his response:
One of our Airmen wanted to know, “Why has guidance for Air Reserve Technicians not been pushed out on going to mission essential personnel?”
That’s a great question. We are a tenant unit at Barksdale which means we follow the policies set by 2nd Bomb Wing in regards to installation access. Base access is currently "For Official Business Only." This is in place to protect our troops, families and personnel. Bottom line, we must safeguard our national security missions.
Health and Wellness
Kirkpatrick also urged Airmen with medical questions on COVID-19, such as self-isolation, positive testing, and restriction of movement, to call 318-529-3104 during the weekday and 318-456-6555 on weekends.
“Please use safe practices and take care of yourself and your families,” said Kirkpatrick. “You are the most important resource the wing has. Let’s pull together and get the mission done.”