TOP STORY >>Base housing: Pride in ownership

By Brig. Gen. Wayne Schatz
314th Airlift Wing commander

Recently, we held a town hall meeting to discuss the state of base housing here. I wanted to talk to you face to face to tell you we haven’t forgotten about the issues here. Just like you, I live in base housing and pay my rent each month to American Eagle.

Like you, I have been frustrated by the stalled progress in new construction and frankly, I’m disappointed in the entire process.

All is not lost. My goal has always been to provide you with safe, comfortable, affordable housing on the Rock. There are three different companies interested in buying our housing project. All three have made the trip to Little Rock Air Force Base and are excited about what they can do for our community. It’s not too optimistic on my part to say we’ll see dirt moving and construction resume by next summer.

In the meantime, there are some things I ask of you. First, your continued patience. Trust that we’re doing everything in our power to resolve the situation; you won’t be disappointed. Next, hold American Eagle to the terms of your lease. This means allowing them to handle maintenance issues the best they can before calling in someone else.

Keep track of work order numbers and other information related to the upkeep of your home. This allows our experts to track issues and gives us the leverage needed to help when we can’t resolve matters at the lowest levels available. As your commander, I can’t hold them to their end of the agreement unless you meet your end – and that means holding the company accountable every time.

Lastly, take pride in your homes. For the four months or four years that you have them, these houses are yours. I see the pride you take in your physical appearance, the appearance of your cars and your aircraft. Treat your home as if you own it. Today and tomorrow, we are hosting a base housing cleanup.

Mulch and weed cloth is available at the Town Hall. It’s time to mow, edge, clean up the carport clutter and make your homes ready for the spring.

Last week, we were asked by the Air Staff to summarize our town hall meeting. The one topic that came up repeatedly during this conversation was the professionalism and class our Combat Airlifters have shown during this entire process.

You are a true testament to getting the job done regardless of the obstacles – even when those obstacles are at home. I am extremely proud of the decorum you have shown and have come to expect nothing less of you.
Combat Airlift!