The IG is here to help

  • Published
  • By Maj. Paul Deutsch
  • 310th Space Wing Director of Complaints Resolution
SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. --  As the 310th Space Wing Inspector General Director of the Complaints Resolution Program, I want to share thoughts on why this program exists and when to access it (and other base resources).  I hope this article leaves you better informed and ready to share with other Air Force members as a Wingman, if needed. 
First, a bit about me.  As a Traditional Reservist, I work full-time for the Denver VA as a social worker in the homeless programs.  I have the privilege of helping veterans on the street and in shelters access independent housing through a voucher program.  Once in an apartment, case managers like me provide the support and resources to maintain housing.  Using a "Housing First" approach, the VA believes that with roofs over their heads, veterans will be better equipped to address other challenge areas, improve their well-being, and reach their own goals.

Many homeless veterans are either unaware of programs and services or are not ready to access them for various reasons.  This is understandable; we can't take action on what we don't know and when things get extra challenging it is also the hardest time to make sense of available resources.  As veterans with a "warrior mentality", there is often a reluctance to reach out for assistance.
Similarly, as active duty or Reserve members, accessing resources is often our last inclination--we want to be the self-sufficient and battle-ready Airmen that can handle anything.  A warrior mentality can, unfortunately, prevent service members from reaching out when accessing resources would return Airmen to their best selves.

In addition to many resources within the chain-of-command, each base has established a collection of supportive offices and programs. These include the Airman and Family Readiness Centers, Chaplains, Military Family Life Consultants, Equal Opportunity, and the IG.  If you are ever wondering if one of these options might be helpful to you, contact them and ask!  You will be pointed in the right direction if you get started somewhere.

The IG's CRP serves as a neutral, objective, fact-finding third party to ensure concerns of individuals and the best interests of the Air Force are addressed.  It is not a substitute for the chain-of command, but provides another avenue of redress or appeal where none already exists.  Your chain-of-command is encouraged to have the opportunity to address a concern first as it is often the most expedient means of resolution.  No one, however, can ever restrict a military or civilian member from accessing the IG or Congress if they desire to do so. 
You may be surprised to learn that a complaint does not inevitably result in an investigation.  In fact, this occurs in less than two percent of contacts.  The majority of members' concerns are resolved with an assist or a referral to a base resource or unit.  This fits well with the IG's charge: to be alert to issues affecting the Air Force, to engage in problem-solving, and to ultimately improve mission effectiveness. 

It goes without saying that every member is an important part of the 310th SW team.  The wing is the best team possible when Airmen are at their best.  If you aren't, talk with your chain-of-command or the IG.

One of the secrets of life is learning to talk with other people to resolve issues.  It gets easier with practice.  As military members, many of us need practice accessing resources to get to a better place.  Please do not hesitate to contact me if you are "stuck" and would like to start a conversation at paul.deutsch.2@us.af.mil or by office phone at 567-3984.