Union representing base workers on strike

Published June 8, 2009

VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- An expired collective bargaining agreement between CSC Applied Technologies LLC, and its three sub-contractors-- PRI/DJI, DenMar, and M1 Support Service-- and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local Lodge 898, resulted in a strike that began at 12:01 a.m. today (June 8).

Normal flying operations at Vance have been temporarily suspended and the base is currently assessing the mission impact of the strike.

"The Wing's response to the strike is driven by several factors. One is the concern for the well- being of our personnel, and the families who live here on base," said Col. Richard Murphy, acting 71st Flying Training Wing commander.

"For example, while the strike continues, Air Force augmentees from Columbus AFB, Miss., Altus AFB, Okla. and Luke AFB, Ariz., have been brought in to ensure that we have a fire department staffed to respond to emergencies on base," he said.

"We also have Security Forces augmentees from this base activated to ensure the safety of base personnel and property," said Colonel Murphy.

Vance has coordinated inbound and outbound traffic to ensure that the neutral parties can continue to enter and exit the base freely, and to comply with applicable regulations and command instructions.

The base looks forward to the resolution of these negotiations but remains impartial during the strike.

More information will be released as it becomes available.