End of fiscal year brings change to Moody

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Spencer Gallien
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  As the end of the fiscal year came and passed Oct. 1, the 23rd Wing initiated some of the largest quality of life and funding initiatives in the history of the base.

According to Bill Bryan, 23rd Civil Engineering Squadron chief engineer, more than 56 projects have been approved over the past two weeks including a 120-Airman dormitory, an A-10C Thunderbolt II jet engine shop and the renovation of a federal prison into a pararescueman complex for the 58th Rescue Squadron, Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.

"In total, Moody will be spending more than $48 million on updating pre-existing buildings as well as the construction on various new facilities," added Mr. Bryan. "I've been here since 1985 and this is the largest year I have seen as far as funding for base facilities goes.

Among those initiatives the base will begin construction on the Flying Tiger's Heritage Park that will be located directly behind the Parker Greene Base Support Center.

"We're extremely excited about the Heritage Park," said Col. Kenneth E. Todorov, 23rd Wing commander. "The Flying Tigers have a rich, storied history. The Heritage Park will not only be a central focal point for the base, but a monument to all Flying Tigers past and present. The park is only the beginning of a project we're working on to one day construct a Flying Tiger Heritage Center at the west end of the ellipse."

The park will include various static displays of aircraft from the Flying Tigers and Moody's history as well as a ceremonial plaza and parade ground.

Although many of the initiatives have to do with new structures on base, there are also pre-existing buildings that will be updated.

Certain facilities on base will be receiving any number of upgrades including new windows, locks, electrical wiring, office renovations and much more.

"Outside of the new building's we will begin in 2009, there will also be a great number of infrastructure projects occurring on base," said Mr. Bryan. "From sewer work to electrical wiring these initiatives are very exciting, it's great to see the Air Force spend money on these projects."

Mr. Bryan also pointed out that the first construction will begin in January of 2009.

"Now that we have approval for these projects it is time to rack and stack the different initiatives," said Mr. Bryan. "We are still currently developing a plan of attack for all the projects that will be occurring in 2009."

Chief Master Sgt. Paul Burgess, 23rd Wing command chief, said that this is a very exciting time for all Flying Tigers.

"The hard work put in by everyone to develop a comprehensive plan before the yearend closeout ensured the wing was ready to execute when the opportunity came," said Chief Burgess. "This level of involved leadership reflects a strong commitment to taking care of our Airmen and their families."