Inspector General: here to help

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Dale Neely
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Inspector General
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  The Inspector Generals Office is taking a proactive approach. 

Our goal is to fix issues before they become problems. We see an investigation as the last option; instead we seek to resolve issues at the lowest level. Our office truly believes an IG investigation is one of the most detrimental things a squadron can endure. So if the inspector general is not here for the sole purpose of doing investigations, you may wonder what is the primary mission of the new IG? 

Our primary mission is to keep Team McConnell focused on the mission. We are at war and here at McConnell AFB we are faced with a number of challenges; high ops tempo, a manning shortage, numerous deployments, etc. With all of these demands on our people it is imperative that everyone have their minds on the task at hand and not concerned with problems outside the work area. 

So how does the IG system keep people focused on the mission? It is the IG's job to be the "eyes and ears" of the commander and informed the commander of the potential areas of concern. It is our job as well to be a fact-finder and honest broker in the resolution of complaints. We educate and train commanders and members of the base population on their rights and responsibilities in regards to the Air Force IG system. 

By doing these things we help commanders prevent, detect, and correct fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement. As a result, people can stay focused on the mission.
The IG can't fix all the problems faced by our troops, but we can assist people on many issues when they don't know which direction to turn. 

Of course, using the chain of command is always the recommended method for solving issues. A supervisor, first sergeant, or commander can't solve problems if they don't know about them. The commander or first sergeant can solve many issues with a single phone call on your behalf.

 We also recommend you use established redress or appeals channels as provided for by law or regulation prior to using the IG system. If you have talked to your chain of command or used the established redress system and your problem hasn't been solved do not hesitate to contact the IG. Just call ext. 3192 and make an appointment or come by our office. We are located in Bldg 750, 2nd floor, suite 207. 

We want to send the message that this is not the old IG. We don't lay low waiting for someone to make a mistake and then pounce on them with the "Gotchya" mentality. 

We are more interested in solving problems at the lowest level and making sure our people are ready to do the mission. 

Contact us if you have a problem that just can't be solved or you are considering actions on a subordinate but you're just not sure. we are here to help.