A bunch of hustle, bustle

Published May 6, 2010
By Airman 1st Class Christopher Gross
3rd Wing Public Affairs

ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Being at an installation that houses five types of aircraft, Airmen at Elmendorf know how busy it can get up here. Especially these Airmen assigned to the 3rd Wing Protocol office.

After hosting 386 events during the last fiscal year, the protocol office was recognized as one of the busiest in the Air Force.

If the 3rd Wing wasn't busy enough in itself, protocol is also responsible for the protocol needs of 11th Air Force, Joint Task Force-Alaska, the North American Aerospace Defense Command and they assist in conjunction with contingency units from Kulis Air National Guard and Eielson AFB, Alaska.

"Elmendorf's a different animal," said Maj. Michael Zwalve, chief of 3rd Wing Protocol. "It's a highly visible job, which requires high speed Airmen."

With 10 people assigned to the protocol shop, each individual can have eight to 10 events that they're working on at one time.

"There's not a whole lot of down time in protocol," said the major.

Protocol personnel will often start working on a project two to three months in advance, depending on the status of the event and how long it runs.

Major Zwalve said that when an event occurs it needs to go flawlessly. He added that there's a lot of behind-the-scenes work that goes on before any Distinguished Visitor makes a stop at Elmendorf.

Some of the busier visits at Elmendorf last year included the President of the United States, the Secretary of Defense and former President Clinton.

Anytime a DV visits Elmendorf, protocol is responsible for ensuring everything is in tip-top shape. That means everything is neat, clean and looks its best. They prepare food, ensure seating arrangements are in line with their regulation and ensure orderly. They cover every detail from the biggest to the seemingly insignificant to ensure the smoothest visit possible.

"Our main job is to advise, give guidance and mentor project officers throughout the wing on how to run anything from changes of commands, base visits, to a variety of military ceremonies," said Major Zwalve.

The major also added, "I would ask project officers to contact protocol because we can steer them in the right direction, and chances are we have continuity from a previous event so they don't have to re-invent the wheel. We can provide checklists and itinerary formats to fit any event. This will leave the guess work out for the project officer."

The hand-picked Airmen responsible for liaising with event project officers typically fill a protocol position for a year.

Senior Airman Ramon Grijalva, 3rd Wing Protocol, was picked in November 2009 to be on the elite protocol team. Airman Grijalva was assigned to a back shop of avionics maintenance, and since joining the team has enjoyed the diversity of the job.

"I really enjoy getting out and doing something different," said Airman Grijalva. "This is something (that gives me the) opportunity to see a different side of the Air Force and do things I wouldn't be able to in maintenance."

Airman Grijalva also said he likes seeing what goes on behind the scenes and getting to know his leadership. He said that no event is the same as another and that he has to adapt and learn from each situation.

Major Zwalve stresses that protocol is there for those that need them.

"There's a lot of things we have a part in people don't realize," said Major Zwalve. "We want to let people know we're here for them as an advisor, to give guidance on protocol matters."