Operation Bootstrap
By Maj Herb Porter
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As part of the Air National Guard’s "People Potential 2000 and Beyond" Diversity Initiative, The Washington ANG has instituted "Operation Bootstrap". This program, similar to the Air Force’s "Gold Bar" Commissioning Program, is designed to give deserving enlisted members the opportunity for commissioning through state wide competition. Its purpose is to create a fair, equitable process designed to select the future leaders of the Washington ANG.
The purpose of Operation Bootstrap is to commission up to three new officers in FY 99 at the State Headquarters. Other major units (WADS, 141 ARW, and 252 CCGP) may follow suit. Upon graduation from the Academy of Military Science (AMS) and AFSC training, the officers will be assigned for mentoring and experience. They will have responsibilities to the State Headquarters to work in mentoring and recruiting programs. Their Specialty training will depend on individual qualifications. After the initial two years of experience, the officers may be detailed to one or more of the units to gain additional mentoring and seasoned experience.
To qualify for consideration, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or be within one year of completion. They must be less than 34 years of age, and must meet weight and fitness standards. If selected, applicants are required to pass an appointment physical and the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test. All interested enlisted personnel that meet the stated criteria need to submit a resume of your civilian and military background, a letter of recommendation from your unit commander, along with a letter of introduction answering these questions: (1) Why do you want to become an officer in the Washington ANG? (2) As an officer, what is the one thing I would improve in the Washington ANG? All completed applications, including resume, letter and command recommendation are to arrive no later than 18 December l998 to:
HQ WA ANG/CCE
118 Infantry Drive
Camp Murray, WA 98430-5016
Email: liz.scott@wataco.ang.af.mil
What happens next? A board of officers will convene in the January/February timeframe. Selections (up to 5 – 3 primaries and 2 alternates) will be made and notifications sent on what will be needed next.
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