VSAF update

[RiverAux]

Although I don't really expect any sort of formal report on the test phase of the VSAF program to be released (or written for that matter), can anyone involved in it give an update on what they're seeing now that we're closing in on a year since the program started?  I know that we had at least one or two posters who had been taking part. 

Is the AF still supportive?  Is it bringing any new people into CAP interested in participating in the program? Are you still being asked to do useful tasks? 

[JAFO78]

For some of us who don't remember or don't know can you remind us what VSAF is?

Is it a Virtual Air Force?  Sorry as I am not in the know?

[Eclipse]

http://www.cap.gov/visitors/events/vsaf/vsaf_program/

Essentially having CAP members serve in various administrative jobs to supplement active duty people on an unpaid, volunteer basis. 

Currently in very limited use (last NEC meeting indicated 3 bases are currently involved), and by no means a universally popular idea:

http://captalk.net/index.php?topic=4006.0

http://captalk.net/index.php?topic=4024.0

[JAFO78]

Thank you now I do remember. I guess that's why its called "old age" 

[JK657]

I was cruising through some of the old posts and saw this one. I was wondering how things were going? Did the uniform situation ever get settled?

It seems like this program had so much potential but there was a lot of debate on here about it

[Gunner C]

I was cruising through some of the old posts and saw this one. I was wondering how things were going? Did the uniform situation ever get settled?

It seems like this program had so much potential but there was a lot of debate on here about it

I was wondering the same thing the other night - I haven't heard anything since the National Board meeting a few months ago.

[RiverAux]

The last word was that some sort of analysis if the test program had been done and that they were looking at how to roll it out nationally (at least thats what I seem to recall from the National Board). 

[Gunner C]

The last word was that some sort of analysis if the test program had been done and that they were looking at how to roll it out nationally (at least thats what I seem to recall from the National Board).

Yep, that's the last time I heard it mentioned.

[JK657]

Two things stood out to me during the great VSAF debates:

1. The uniform: Some were absolutely opposed to the new duds that the program required, some were okay with it, others wanted to wear rank, etc

2. The Jobs: Seemed like a lot of fear of a CAP Lt. Col handing out towels in the gym or a Lieutenant  being ordered around by an AD Airman. Others were just happy to be involved in the program regardless of the job or duties required.

I just wondered for those who actually participated in it, did they hand out towels while dressed in the khaki and button up shirt while under the close supervision of an A1C?

[JohnKachenmeister]

From what I have heard:

1.  The uniform is a problem.  At least one base had the CAP working mobilization issues, which involved occasional trips to field training locations.  National was considering designing a new BDU uniform for that.

Proposed solution:  Leave the uniform decision to the installation commander.  BDU's when appropriate, AF uniform with rank when appropriate, Home Depot Associate uniform when that is appropriate.

2.  Jobs have not been a problem, as far as I can tell.  The volunteers have not been assigned to menial tasks. 

[RiverAux]

If I recall we had one participant who was involved in base emergency management issues as a VSAF volunteer.  However, IIRC job duties were one of the issues that were being looked at. 

I think the problem with the VSAR "uniform" was that it was unnecessary since we already had an equivalent uniform in general ciruclation (the golf shirt). 

[SAR-EMT1]

If I recall we had one participant who was involved in base emergency management issues as a VSAF volunteer.  However, IIRC job duties were one of the issues that were being looked at. 

I think the problem with the VSAR "uniform" was that it was unnecessary since we already had an equivalent uniform in general ciruclation (the golf shirt).

I would LOVE to get into that kind of support role...

[RADIOMAN015]

I personally like the idea of VSAF, HOWEVER, my issue was with the policy that allowed members to join CAP ONLY to participate in this program and not participate in squadron activities.   I firmly believe that IF anyone who is a member helps on our base that provides support, the squadron commander & staff needs to first PERSONALLY INTERVIEW that member.  Generally, I'd like to see someone in the program for at least 6 months before we let them do anything with the AF, unless they are military retirees.

The wrong member at the wrong time can do a heck of a lot more harm to CAP in general in this program (as well as the the squadron on that military base).

Additionally I see no reason why we need another special uniform, any of the blue golf shirts with grey pants would be fine. 

I do hope they expand the program because I would be willing to give about 6 to 8 hrs a month to it, perhaps on a Saturday
RM   

[JohnKachenmeister]

First, I think that military retirees were the target of that particular recruitment drive.

Second, I think that WHATEVER the reason people join, that's OK.  As they participate and learn more, they usually participate more.

Were sort of like a strange religious cult.  First we hook them in, then we tell them to drink the kool-aid.

[BrandonKea]

First, I think that military retirees were the target of that particular recruitment drive.

Second, I think that WHATEVER the reason people join, that's OK.  As they participate and learn more, they usually participate more.

I'd love to participate should it ever come to Offutt...

[Spike]

.......First we hook them in, then we tell them to drink the kool-aid.

Usually donuts play a big factor as well.  That is how I got hooked on CAP.  CAP is like a drug.  I cant wait to do CAP.  I like to do CAP to "get away" from life sometimes.  I am so addicted to CAP........ 

[Gunner C]

. . . and the donuts. 

[RiverAux]

 
I just came across an update on VSAF prepared for the Dec 2008 BoG meeting.  Its a little bit dated, but its the only written VSAF update I've seen:

VSAF now managed by SAF/MRR and AF/A3OHA under AF Continuum of Service

program.

-- Continuum of Service (CoS) is a DoD initiative seeking to provide opportunities for servicemen to remain engaged in military activities in multiple phases of their careers either as active duty, Guard, reserve or civilian volunteers.

- AF bases currently participating: Randolph AFB, San Antonio TX, Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton OH, and Luke AFB, Phoenix AZ.

- Those joining CAP to perform VSAF services become full-fledged CAP members, with full rights and privileges as other CAP members.

- CAP group commanders serve as project liaisons, coordinating with base personnel to identify and fill needs.

- CAP created an online scheduling application to manage volunteers. Also shows offices requesting assistance. Used by AF & CAP personnel.

- AF-assigned mission status requires individuals to be in an authorized uniform.

-- Participants wear khaki pants and a distinctive CAP shirt for VSAF duties.

- 11 enrolled to date: 3 at Randolph; 4 at Wright-Patterson; 4 at Luke.

-- 360 hours of participation logged to date.

-- Duties include computer-assisted drawing support, filing, videotaping.

-- New initiative will focus on local legal community in hope of obtaining assistance for base legal offices (wills, powers of attorney, etc.)

- Issues:

-- Common Access Card network access issues now resolved.

-- Some initial base access problems. All resolved.

-- Very low response to flyers distributed through base pharmacies (1-2 per 1,000 fliers). Amending flyer design and seeking other distribution opportunities.  Evaluating other media.

-- Standard duty is Mon - Fri, 8 - 5 -- many CAP members have paying jobs with the same work schedule

Some thoughts:
If they're seeing this primarily as a program for prior-military, I think they're missing the boat.  Though, we do know that existing CAP members have participated. 

I'm guessing the fliers they talked about were aimed at recently separated military using the base pharmacy.  Seems like a sort of harebrained way of trying to do recruit. 

If they are expecting volunteers to basically do this as a full-time volunteer job (40 hours a week), I'm actually surprised that ANYONE has participated.  That certainly knocks out anyone but fully-retired people and even then very few are going to sign up for 40 hours a week.  Perhaps they just phrased things wrong in the report and that they actually meant that volunteers have to volunteer at some time during a regular work week.  This will certainly keep a lot of people out and I would be surprised if there weren't things that couldn't be done on the weekends, especially if there are Guard units using those bases. 

They're going to focus on getting lawyers to help out?  Thats great.  This has worked well in several SDFs so is a decent idea. 

Keep in mind this update is over a year old and we did hear a verbal report at one of the national meetings this year that indicated that they were getting ready for a national roll-out.  Sure do seem to be taking their time with it. 

[RADIOMAN015]

Although I don't really expect any sort of formal report on the test phase of the VSAF program to be released (or written for that matter), can anyone involved in it give an update on what they're seeing now that we're closing in on a year since the program started?  I know that we had at least one or two posters who had been taking part. 

Is the AF still supportive?  Is it bringing any new people into CAP interested in participating in the program? Are you still being asked to do useful tasks?

Military retirees (nor most others interested in this) don't need to join & pay dues to C(ome) A(nd) P(ay) just to volunteer their services at any military base.  Another dream in the dreamland world of Civil Air Patrol.  Generally, there's a Retiree Affairs Office on bases that do a great job at coordinating any volunteer requirements that reitrees and their spouses can help with.
Additionally in the distant past, the American Red Cross also coordinated volunteers for any health care facility assistance.
Furthermore, the USO also needs volunteers for many of its' services such as meet & greet.

As far as CAP as a whole goes, the program probably could be expanded to at least units that are currently on military installations by the CAP commanders just asking the Military Installation Commander, is there anything we can help you with?  Based upon that answer and the CAP commanders' knowledge of  currently active available  members, perhaps assistance could be provided.   

I think the biggest challenge is that much of the volunteer
assistance requirements are typically weekdays in the 9 to 5 time frame, and many CAP members (including military retirees who are members) are working in a civilian paying job.
RM

[RiverAux]

Here is a story about a MD Wing a squadron getting a Unit Citation for support to the Air National Guard, yet our official VSAF program is apparently still floundering about:
http://www.capvolunteernow.com/news.cfm/md_squadron_receives_unit_citation_award_for_service_to_air_national_guard?show=news&newsID=7357

[MIKE]

It would have been cooler if it was an AFOUA awarded by the Air Guard itself instead of a CAP award.  Had it been the other Aux we'd be seeing at least a CGMTC or CGMUC.

[RADIOMAN015]

Maybe I blinked or was too dazed during the HQ CAP briefing at our Wing Conference -- BUT nothing was mentioned about this program at all.  Even on the Wing side nobody said anything yet in the wing there's 2 ANGB's 1 AF Reserve, & 1 Active AF base.

This could be a win/win worthwhile program for CAP'ers to consider :clap:
RM

[RADIOMAN015]

Any more word on where this program is going

Other than 3 bases currently involved there's been no additional word on expansion.

I've noted the CAP website
http://www.capmembers.com/events/vsaf_program/index.cfm
appears to be geared towards National managing the entire program.

Aren't there units on each one of the bases that have the VSAF program  (Randolp, Luke, Wright Patterson), and are these units actively participating in this program?

I would have thought by now more expansion of the program would have been considered OR even more guidance for units supported by military bases (or even National Guard armories) to approach appropirate commanders.
RM   

[RiverAux]

They gave a report on it at one of the national meetings (last fall?).  IIRC they intended to move forward with it, but that there were some issues that came up during the pilot phase that needed to be worked out. 

[JohnKachenmeister]

At the installation level, AF bases work with the local units just fine.  If they need help, they'll ask.  If we see something we can do to help, we'll offer.

Making this a national-level program is an exercise in micromanagement that could be used as a negative example in a lot of MBA classes.

The BEST thing NHQ could have done was to educate the senior leadership and installation commanders that a resource is out there, let the local unit appoint a POC to work with the base personnel office, develop job descriptions, skill sets sought, and hours expected, and let the CAP POC recruit volunteers from the CAP members in the area.

[RiverAux]

At the installation level, AF bases work with the local units just fine.  If they need help, they'll ask.  If we see something we can do to help, we'll offer.

As best I've ever been able to tell, this actually only happens at a very small number of AFBs so quite obviously the current system was not providing any significant amount of assistance to the AF. 

Making this a national-level program is an exercise in micromanagement that could be used as a negative example in a lot of MBA classes.

As opposed to the total lack of a program that we have now?  Have you ever looked at the procedures that would be necessary to officially ask for CAP help in these areas?  It was never up to the local AFB commander or his subordinate unit commanders and the many layers of command that need to approve such actions now make it extremely unlikely that most commanders actually interested in using CAP would follow through.  Hopefully this is exactly the sort of thing that will be fixed as a result of the pilot program.

The BEST thing NHQ could have done was to educate the senior leadership and installation commanders that a resource is out there, let the local unit appoint a POC to work with the base personnel office, develop job descriptions, skill sets sought, and hours expected, and let the CAP POC recruit volunteers from the CAP members in the ar

And how do you know that this isn't exactly what is eventually going to happen?

[RiverAux]

Although I'm pretty sure that this will result in my hearing the sound of crickets, has anyone heard any new news on the VSAF program in the last year?

[The CyBorg is destroyed]

Not a word...

I could see it happening more with ANG and AFRES units, like assisting with mobilisation.  Normally, SDF's do that but the only state I can think of that has an active, working State Air Guard is Texas, though New York and Indiana both had them in years past.

WRT uniforms (always has to be that little bugbear, doesn't there?) one option for office-type work would be to wear the blank grey slides if the wing king so desires.

[RADIOMAN015]

Not a word...

I could see it happening more with ANG and AFRES units, like assisting with mobilisation.  Normally, SDF's do that but the only state I can think of that has an active, working State Air Guard is Texas, though New York and Indiana both had them in years past.

WRT uniforms (always has to be that little bugbear, doesn't there?) one option for office-type work would be to wear the blank grey slides if the wing king so desires.

There's already a uniform designated, a different type of golf shirt and tan pants.  Personally, I don't see any reason why the current golf shirt with grey pants also wouldn't work

At our base we support a private non profit organization that support the base by assisting them with staffing (cadets & senior members, mostly not in uniform) at some of their events they hold for base personnel.  We've been on the base for about 50 years and I don't think the base has really asked the squadron for any specific direct assistance.

Personally, I think the program likely would be more successful in assisting at USO and Family Readiness Center's than anything in direct operational support.  Reserve, Guard, & Active Duty units have appropriately trained teams to process mobilization and/or deployments.   

Some bases have contractors performing some duties (and thus can't have volunteers helping the contractors)  and even civilian employees might be concerned through their unions if they lost overtime opportunities.  So the program really gets down to what the Air Force is comfortable with the "civilian" volunteer doing.  Perhaps locally their could be some meetings with base officials to see what the needs are, BUT these would be supplemental to and not replacement for current staffing.

RM   

[Patterson]

VSAF is dead.

[arajca]

VSAF is dead.

Cite?

[lordmonar]

VSAF is dead.

Cite?

Oh like the complete lack of any news about it.  The complete lack of anyone who even know anyone who is actually doing it.

Sounds dead to me.

[PHall]

VSAF is dead.

Cite?

How about you provide some "proof of life"?  Good luck!

[RiverAux]

Still hoping that someone may have some information on what is going on, if anything, with this program. 

NED -- Has this been dropped?

[RADIOMAN015]

VSAF is dead.

Cite?

How about you provide some "proof of life"?  Good luck!

This is still in one of the generic briefing slides about this program (that I am using in my upcoming presentation to a group), does ANYONE know if this program is still being studied   or is it DEAD!!!!

Would have been nice to see an update at one of the NEC/NB meetings.
RM 

[FW]

The program is, although not dead, not being "pursued".  Sort of like the OE program....

[The CyBorg is destroyed]

The program is, although not dead, not being "pursued".  Sort of like the OE program....

We understand, sir.

It's dead.

[RADIOMAN015]

Looks like the program is still on some life support

See the "AF Volunteer Now" article published today:
http://www.capvolunteernow.com/news/?fema_honors_ariz_wing_official_for_conducting_emergency_response_training&show=news&newsID=13016

Looks like that CAP member provides training & planning support to the Luke AFB fire department.  Also CAP benefits from this FEMA training capability.
RM

[PHall]

Now, is he really doing that under VSAF or is it just a one of a kind deal that happens at Luke?

I'm betting on the one of a kind deal...