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News | Feb. 14, 2020

DCMA Phoenix personnel receive first-class welcome

By Army Lt. Col. Michael Mignano

Defense Contract Management Agency Phoenix and business partner personnel received a backstage tour of Luke Air Force Base last month by the 56th Fighter Wing’s Public Affairs office.

DCMA Phoenix is scheduled to relocate its headquarters, and over 125 employees, to Luke Air Force Base in the fall of 2020.  While their new headquarters was being renovated for occupation, they received a warm reception by the 56th Mission Support Group Commander, Air Force Col. “RY” Richardson, and other tenant units.

Wade McVey, DCMA Phoenix deputy, stated the event was, “the perfect way to establish a new and long-lasting relationship with our new community partners.”

After touring their future office building, the employees listened to a variety of speakers including the 56th Mission Support Group commander, representatives from the legal assistance office, housing office, education support center, and recreation services.  The speakers provided the employees a glimpse of available support services and the installation’s activities and recreation opportunities. 

The group was then taken to the 56th Fighter Wing’s weapons load training hanger where they learned how Airmen train to equip fighter aircraft with a variety of ordinances.  Christopher Sharos, a DCMA Phoenix employee, was able to showcase his extensive knowledge of aircraft maintenance with his civilian teammates. Sharos is an Air Force Reserve master sergeant and member of the 944th Fighter Wing.

Next they were taken directly onto an active flight line where they were able to get up-close and personal with an F16 Fighting Falcon and the world’s premier fighter aircraft, the F35 Lighting.

“Growing up as a child of two Air Force parents, it was so great to interact with the current generation of Warfighters,” said Janene Anderson, DCMA contract administrator.

The employees were then taken directly into the base’s air traffic control tower.  As the flight controllers were orchestrating fighter aircraft, the tower’s non-commissioned officer in charge explained the multiple roles and responsibilities of each Airman. The aircraft controllers politely answered questions, while perfectly executing their complex multitude of tasks.       

“We are thankful for overwhelming hospitality of the Luke Air Force Base community, and look forward to becoming members of the Luke family,” said Army Col. Christopher Ostby, DCMA Phoenix commander.