Wolf Pack comptrollers, best in Air Force

by Master Sgt. Sabrina Johnson
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

2/24/2014 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The 8th Fighter Wing comptrollers recently won the Air Force Comptroller Squadron of the Year award for 2013 at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea.

The annual award is designed to choose the "best of the best" in finance around the Air Force.

"I think we won because we were fortunate to have Airmen who understand what it means to give it their all every day, said Maj. Martin Philogene, 8th Comptroller Squadron commander. "The Money Wolves are the best in the Air Force because of their dedication and commitment to the mission and our customers; they are 100 percent focused on taking care of our customers every day."

Noteworthy and mission impact achievements are required for this award. The 8th CPTS performed above and beyond with 70 percent personnel changeover and training deficiencies. "We were able to achieve such an objective by assigning folks to positions where the training they needed was minimal; thereby reducing the amount of time we spent on training each individual," Philogene said.

Everyone on the installation uses the comptroller squadron at least once while assigned at Kunsan Air Base.

"A vital part of the squadron winning the award was that we provided sound financial advice and decision support in the execution of the Wolf Pack's $60 million budget and the exemplary support we provide to our 2,700 customers on a daily basis," said Senior Master Sgt. Eva Rodgers, 8th Comptroller Squadron superintendent.

For Philogene, the award is evidence that the team's success is dependent upon the Airmen to the senior non-commissioned officers and especially their Korean civilians.

"I don't think this is a high the Airmen are going to come down off anytime soon; they are still speechless when asked about winning the award," said Philogene. "I am extremely proud that our Airman were recognized for their knowledge, dedication and all the long hours they worked to ensure the Wolf Pack was ready to fight tonight."