USProtect contract runs out, CIS to step in

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Gloria Wilson
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  On Dec.1, Eielson personnel will no longer see the blue uniform of the USProtect guarding Eielson's gates.

They will be replaced by Chenega Integrated Systems' choice uniforms, bearing the Chenega logo.

"The guards will have new uniforms but, you will see the same friendly faces you've been seeing," said Mr. Raymond Johnson, who will be the chief of guard starting the day the Chenega contract begins. "The current guards were all offered the option of staying on with CIS and the majority of them have decided to continue protecting Eielson's gates."

Dec. 1 is when USProtect's contract runs out. When a military contract expires it is open to be bid on by other contractors, allowing businesses the opportunity for that contract. CIS was the company chosen.

"I feel CIS was selected because of its outstanding record and reviews," said Mr. Johnson. "The company has a long list of DOD facilities it protects such as various Army installations and Air Force bases."

Chenega will also be protecting the Air Force gates at Andersen AFB, Guam; Beale AFB, Calif.; Buckley AFB, Colo.; Cheyenne Mt. AFS, Colo.; Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz.; Edwards AFB, Calif.; Elmendorf AFB, Alaska; Hickam AFB, Hawaii.; Hill AFB, Utah.; McChord AFB, Wash.; Mountain Home AFB, Idaho; Nellis AFB, Nev.; Peterson AFB, Colo.; Schriever AFB, Colo.; the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo.; and Vandenberg AFB, Calif.

Although we will have new uniforms, an equipment change (as USProtect equipment is turned in and Chenega equipment issued) and a new chief of guard, I think the difference will be minimal, said Mr. Timothy Horn, a USProtect security guard who is staying on when CIS takes over.

"Procedures are staying the same so security will not be an issue," added Mr. Johnson.

Mrs. Janet Hemmann, another USProtect security guard who will transition over, said she wasn't too concerned about the upcoming changes. "I heard Chenega treats their employees well and that was my main concern."