The IG system Published Nov. 14, 2007 By Mr. Larry Tunnicliff 460th Space Wing Deputy Inspector General BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The primary responsibilities of the base Inspector General are to provide responsive complaint investigations; an avenue for fraud, waste and abuse reporting; respond to congressional inquiries; and provide general assistance to the base's family with objectivity, integrity and impartiality. The IG has the authority to look into anything necessary to resolve problems. The complaint system allows members to be stakeholders in upholding standards and fixing problems. It is also a leadership tool whereby the command can focus on issues or problem areas, correct underlying procedural weaknesses and ensure resources are used effectively and efficiently. The complaint system has a direct influence on mission accomplishment. The command is interested in things running correctly and people being satisfied. When people are happy with the work environment, structure, and receive fair and equitable treatment, they know what to expect and are better able to perform their duties. The IG office services numerous tenant organizations on and around the base. While some tenant organizations have their own IG processes under a different command, the Buckley office assists their personnel if required, and transfers or refers issues to another IG or command channel when appropriate. The IG ensures the concerns of all complainants are addressed through objective fact-finding. The IG analyzes, and at times, investigates, allegations of policy and standards violations. An allegation is substantiated based on a preponderance of evidence. The system is a command function without command authority so findings are reported to the appropriate command authority for action. In most cases, problems can be resolved by offering assistance or by referring a person to any number of helpful agencies. All Air Force military and civilian members have a duty to promptly report fraud, waste, abuse, gross mismanagement, violations of law, abuse of authority and inappropriate conduct. The chain of command is the primary and preferred method of resolving problems. It is important that supervisors, first sergeants and commanders have the opportunity to solve problems first. When all else fails, or one doesn't know where to start, one can contact or visit the IG office. Everyone has unrestricted access to the IG office and can complain without fear of reprisal. No one can take or threaten to take an unfavorable action against, or withhold or threaten to withhold a favorable action from an individual for contacting the IG office. Issues not considered IG matters include: correction of military records, appeals of Officer Performance Reports or Enlisted Performance Reports, Equal Opportunity and Treatment issues, punishment under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, and administrative separations. These issues would likely be referred to an appropriate Office of Primary Responsibility. Civilian issues such as conditions of employment are normally referred to the local servicing civilian personnel office. Criminal activity would be referred to law enforcement personnel. IG matters include allegations of injustice, violations of law or Air Force Instructions, mismanagement, waste of funds, abuse of authority, or substantial danger to public health or safety. The IG office is located in Bldg. 1030, room 130. The IG can be contacted at 720-847-9277. The fraud, waste and abuse Hotline is available at 720-847-9278. Complaints can be submitted in person, in writing or by phone. They can be made by a third party or anonymously. IG roles and responsibilities are outlined in Air Force Instruction 90-301, Inspector General Complaints.