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AETC commander seeks repeat performance to beat the GTC holiday spike

  • Published
  • Air Education and Training Command Public Affairs
Once again the holiday season is here - bringing with it joy, celebration and a renewed emphasis on reducing Government Travel Card delinquencies.

In 2006, Air Education and Training Command broke the historic trend of higher than normal GTC delinquent payment rates during the holiday season - a trend known as the "Holiday Spike." This first-ever achievement paved the way for a 15-month trend of AETC maintaining the lowest GTC delinquency rates in the Air Force.

General William R. Looney III, AETC Commander, is once again challenging his commanders to repeat last year's superb performance. "Our goal during this holiday season is to keep GTC rates below the two percent Air Force standard," said General Looney. "This translates into fewer financial woes for our Airmen, which enables them to better focus on their families and our mission."

There is no magic formula to achieving that goal, said Maj. Virgil Garrett, AETC Chief of Financial Services. "Cardholders and program coordinators simply need to ensure the card is only used for authorized charges," said Major Garrett. "Then, travelers must pay their GTC bill in full when it's due."

Some simple reminders can help avoid delinquent payments or inappropriate GTC use.

"The GTC may only be used while in a TDY/PCS status and only for travel related expenses (i.e., airfare, rental vehicles, lodging and meals)," said Major Garrett. "Guidance also calls for using the split-disbursement feature when filing travel vouchers for all GTC charges."

"Additionally, all outstanding balances must be paid by the due date on the billing statement from Bank of America (BoA)," said the major. "Many Agency Program Coordinators begin contacting Airmen and their commanders about outstanding charges at the 30-day point to ensure they do not become delinquent - being proactive yields great results."

It's relatively simple to avoid trouble with the GTC if it is used properly and members pay the bill on time.

"I'm confident we'll continue leading the Air Force as we beat the 'Holiday Spike' again this year," said General Looney.