LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas—Alfred Jones, 47th Logistics Readiness Flight installation transportation officer and contracting officer representative, was chosen by wing leadership to be the “XLer of the Week”, Aug. 19, 2019, at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas.
The “XLer” award, presented by Col. Todd Dyer, 47th Flying Training Wing vice commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Ronald Harper, 47th Mission Support Group superintendent, is given to those who consistently make outstanding contributions to their unit and the Laughlin mission.
Day-to-day, Jones oversees contractors and their adherence to the performance work statement of the base operating support contract. His duties encompass everything overseeing all incoming and outgoing cargo from Laughlin—including engines, engine parts, flight suits and more—to movement of personal household goods.
One of the many hats Jones wears for his job is overseeing the packing and crating of household goods for military members who are moving to or from Laughlin. It is up to Jones to use his talent building relationships and experience as a transportation officer to build a rapport with potential companies to fill the position.
“Having a local provider here in Del Rio, Texas, helps our movers have one less thing to stress about,” said David Farrell, 47th LRF director of logistics. “Before this, contract service providers would travel from Dallas, Houston or San Antonio. With local support, it’s a win all the way around.”
Another part of Jones’ diverse job revolves around quality control. He authenticated 284 quality control inspection documents and validated third party payment systems invoice payments. Jones validated about $25,000 in expenditures for freight movement, which ensured the workers and those moving are paid for their work or transition.
“Jones is the only one in this position,” Farrell said. “He came on board about six months ago, knowledgeable, but looking for better ways to increase his knowledge and find a better way to accomplish tasks done. He’ll ask the difficult questions of higher headquarters to help give better customer service.”
Another role Jones filled was making sure the shipments of 21 inbound and outbound engines were uninterrupted and timely.
“All inbound and outbound shipments go through building 77 (the building in which Jones works),” Farrell said. “Jones provides supervision of the contractors who schedule these movements. His part in the shipments is important because the engines that come through Laughlin supply not only this base but other Air Education and Training Command bases as well.”
Farrell is impressed with Jones’ drive always to learn more to help his customers.
“Being awarded the ‘XLer’ was a surprise,” Jones said. “I’m thankful and humbled to think my supervisor saw it in me to deserve this recognition.”