310th Space Wing cuts ribbon at new MSG/AMDF facility

Published Nov. 10, 2010
By Tech. Sgt. Scott P. Farley
310th Space Wing Public Affairs

11/10/2010 -- BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The 310th Space Wing commemorated the opening of its mission support group and aero medical dental flight facility on Buckley Air Force with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 6.
The doors to the 310th Mission Support Group and Aero Medical Dental Flight building were officially opened during the November unit training assembly marking a new beginning in the 310th SW's ability to take care of it's people.
"Having our mission support group and medical flight on Buckley proper provides a great work environment to carry out our mission," said Col. Karen Rizzuti, commander of the 310th Space Wing.
The 27,880 square foot facility cost $5.4 million and provides manpower, personnel and medical services to the Reservists of the 310th Space Wing.
The ceremony was attended by the leadership of the 310th Space Wing, as well as local government officials and organizations responsible in the construction of the facility.
The ribbon cutting was the culmination of several years of planning and construction that the 310th Mission Support Group Commander Col. Gene Odom said is a rare opportunity for a commander.
"It's a once in a career opportunity be a part of a project like this from the design to the ribbon cutting," said Colonel Odom. "We finally feel like our own entity, our own group in its own home."
The ceremony also included the activation of the 310th Force Support Squadron, which is housed in the newly opened facility. The activation of the 310th FSS consolidates the operations of the 310th Services Flight and the 310th Mission Support Squadron, which was deactivated. Lt. Col. Kevin Graefe assumed command of the new squadron.
Colonel Odom said the opening of the new building will be a big boost in morale for unit members.
"Our people already have a sense of ownership," said Colonel Odom, who added his troops have already have been working and playing with their host unit. "People are decorating their work areas. There is a sense of family, but also a sense that you are coming to a professional military organization when customers stop here."
Until moving in September, the two units have spent several years as guests in military facilities in Denver and on Buckley.
"The working environment is a 10-fold improvement over the temporary Lowry facilities," said Colonel Rizzuti. "I have already seen a difference in the morale of those units. People are walking around with smiles on their faces and are happy to have a place to call home."

310th MSG/AMDF Ribbon Cutting