Protocol looking for Airmen

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Matt McGovern
  • 60th AMW Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The 60th Air Mobility Wing protocol office is currently excepting motivated senior airmen through technical sergeants for a one-year assignment. 

Chosen Airmen will be part of the primary protocol and special projects office for the largest wing in Air Mobility Command. 

Protocol responsibilities include development and coordination for visiting distinguished visitors and coordinating their briefings, formal lunches and dinners. 

Protocol is also tasked with various aspects of retirements, changes of command, receptions, promotions and ribbon cuttings. 

“It’s a unique opportunity to work at this level — side by side with key leadership. You get a chance to see and hear things most Airmen won’t in their normal careers,” said Capt. Richard Scott, 60th AMW protocol chief. 

Meeting and greeting DVs, providing lodging and transportation reservations for DV are also handled by the protocol office. 

“We’re behind the scenes but we’re a reflection of the commander. We’re entrusted by the base commander to provide DVs with a smooth visit and good impression,” said Staff Sgt. Chi Huynh, protocol representative from the 615th Contingency Response Wing. 

Good impressions are important for protocol; therefore, exceeding all dress and appearance standards are a must. Other requirements include knowledge of Microsoft Office and a minimum of eight months retainability. 

Protocol personnel must also be on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week for short notice protocol requirements. 

“This is not a job for everybody, it’s very demanding, it requires the willingness to work odd hours including some weekends and holidays,” admitted Captain Scott. 

Despite the occasionally demanding work schedule, there are benefits to this tasking. 

“The job sharpens your organization skills and planning skills, it also builds your confidence level and increases your professionalism,” said Staff Sgt. Bradley Swanson, protocol representative from the 60th Maintenance Group. 

“Working in protocol can also help in your career progression. When you progress through the ranks, as you become a senior NCO, it can help make you well-rounded,” Sergeant Swanson added. 

According to Captain Scott, another reward protocol personnel can get is from seeing family members reactions while contributing to promotions, retirements and change of commands. 

“It’s gratifying when ceremonies go well - making lifetime memories for members and families. For some, it’s their first military ceremony and forms a very positive impression of what the Air Force is about,” said Captain Scott. 

In order to represent the Travis Team to families and DVs, it takes a special kind of Airman. One who must enjoy working with people and hold a distinctive level of professionalism. 

“This job requires the best of the best - having the drive and right attitude are huge and will carry you far in this job,” said Captain Scott. 

Those interested must have their squadron commander and group commander’s endorsement and interview with the chief wing protocol to get approval for the position. 

For additional information contact the protocol office at 424-3185.