Goodfellow Air Force Base and San Angelo Independent School District solidified a memorandum of agreement, manifesting the 17th Training Wing to share vehicle mechanics and technicians with SAISD in its administration building, Feb. 21.

“Nobody really understands how important our relationship and partnership with SAISD is,” Col. Tony England, 17th Mission Support Group commander. “It’s so important to us because if our Marines, Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen, are not comfortable with the school system that their dependents are attending, it then affects how they perform in everyday jobs.”

Two years in the making, the MOA was reached as part of the Goodfellow Community Partnership Initiate, which enhances trust and support between GAFB and the local community through partnership opportunities.

“Goodfellow Air Force Base will help us do minor repairs and maintenance on some of our fleet, mainly including SUVs, vans and trucks,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carl Dethloff. “We reciprocate by providing transportation for the Goodfellow Summer Camp during the summer months.”

Due to the historically low unemployment rates and lucrative opportunities in the oil fields, SAISD has difficulties hiring qualified mechanics.

Mission permitting and space available, 17 Logistics Readiness Squadron will provide the labor to perform maintenances and inspections on SAISD support vehicles.  

“It’s a very strategic and important for us that we have a great partnership with SAISD,” said England. “We are very appreciative, glad to be here, and to sign this agreement with you.”

 “We are honored as well,” said Dethloff.