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Changing with the times: the new 47th ISS(P)

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sara Csurilla
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Recently the 47th Civil Engineer Squadron merged with the 47th Communications Squadron at Laughlin Air Force Base to form the 47th Installation Support Squadron (Provisional), the first unit of its kind in the Air Force.

"Change seems to be one of the true constants in our Air Force," said Col. Roger Thrasher, 47th Mission Support Group commander. "This change is driven by money and people reductions, which are in turn shaped by larger forces such as our need to recapitalize our Air Force, and the needs of the on-going wars in Iraq and Afghanistan." 

Presented with those needs, Col. Thrasher started surveying the base for ways to improve efficiency without damaging service or effectiveness.  The two squadrons, which supported related missions and had compatible structures, were quickly identified.  Last September the base began the project to merge the two units.

The 47th CES provided Laughlin with a number of services, including construction, maintenance and readiness. The 47th CS provided a network, computer services and readily available flight line access and communication.

The two were chosen to merge because, both squadrons provide a similar level of support to the mission.

"Both squadrons maintain the infrastructure on the base and we already have existing synergy that can be further strengthened by the merge," said 2nd Lt. Amanda Smeeding, 47th Force Support Squadron executive officer.

Now after nearly eight months of planning and developing by Colonel Thrasher and base leadership, both commander positions in the CES and the CS were combined and Lt. Col. Garrick Williams, former 47th CE commander, took the reins of the new 47th ISS (P) at the merger ceremony at Heritage Park May 27.

"So as we ride the waves of change, as we face the challenges of our times, I feel very confident the men and women of the combined Installation Support Squadron will meet every task, will smash every obstacle and will continue to make Laughlin the premier installation in the world for producing pilots for the current war, and for whatever lies ahead for our nation and our Air Force," Colonel Thrasher said.