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Vance GTC program receives AETC recognition

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Mary Davis
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. (AETCNS) --  Zero is a great number for the 71st Comptroller Squadron, because that's the amount of discrepancy notifications it received in a year on Vance's Government Travel Card program -- a first among all bases in Air Education and Training Command.

"In the past, an AETC base without a 60-day GTC delinquency was unheard of," said Staff Sgt. Joe Lopez, NCO-in-charge of finance customer service. "Since we've started a zero delinquency trend, other bases have contacted us to learn what our policies and procedures are to follow our lead."

Although the Vance GTC program is the frontrunner in the major command, it was tough getting there, Sergeant Lopez said. "At first, it was difficult to get unit commanders on board with the changes we wanted to implement," Sergeant Lopez explained. "However, the wing commander showed full support of the program and all commanders followed suit." The biggest challenge now is keeping the 30-day delinquency list clear every month, he said.

Working with unit commanders was a vital component, said Maj. Dennis Hunt, 71st Comptroller Squadron commander. "It was important to show the accounts that would become delinquent each month at weekly staff meetings," the major said. "Commanders would see updated progress and focus on a limited number of accounts. Travelers later became more proactive in paying their bills. As the trend continued, less time was needed to maintain the zero-percent rate."

"With the support we receive at the unit level and with the Agency Program Coordinators, the program has been simple," Sergeant Lopez said. "We are clearing the delinquency list more quickly each month."

"While everyone in the wing played a role in this achievement, Staff Sgt. Lopez and Senior Airman Veronica Ewell were integral. They not only communicated weekly with units regarding accounts that would become delinquent, they partnered with the 71st Operations Group to streamline the travel accrual process for extended temporary-duty assignments," Major Hunt said. "Individual travelers benefited as GTC payments were made more frequently with minimal effort and units saved time not having to remind TDY personnel to pay their bills -- a huge win-win."

Col. Judy Perry, Financial Services Division chief at AETC, echoed the commander's sentiments. "It is indeed a tremendous accomplishment the entire base can be very proud of," the colonel said. "This achievement reflects the commitment of the entire wing - from senior leaders to individual cardholders. Vance sets the benchmark for proper management and execution of the travel card program. This is the way the program was intended to work, with everyone doing their part. Bravo, Vance!"