Minot AFB makes changes at gates Published May 14, 2010 By Laurie Arellano Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Contracted security personnel received notification May 13 that the contract for security at the installation entry points is set to end. Chenega Security and Protection Services, based out of Virginia, currently holds the contract for installation entry control at Minot AFB. That contract is set to end effective September 30, 2010. "The contractors have performed well and have met their obligations," said Chief Master Sgt. Phillip Jordan, 5th Security Forces Squadron manager. Chief Jordan explained the contract had been funded using Overseas Contingency Operations funds which end after the current fiscal year. The contract must therefore be terminated due to lack of funds to pay its $1.2 million annual cost. Chenega employs 30 contractors locally. "As of October 1, 2010, active-duty Security Forces members will man these positions previously worked by the contract guards," said Chief Jordan. Col. Douglas Cox, 5th Bomb Wing commander, said change is the result of the base officials managing the cut in funding in conjunction with the reduced potential for Security Forces deployments. "They have been a valuable manpower savings for the base," said Colonel Cox. "Without them, we would not have been able to support the many overseas commitments as well as the local exercises and inspections required of us." Colonel Cox said higher-level decisions are resulting in fewer Security Forces personnel being deployed away from Minot AFB. As a result, the base's Overseas Contingency Operations funds were cut and the contract was no longer required. With fewer deployments on the horizon, 5th SFS personnel will be available to fill the installation entry control positions. However, Colonel Cox added the Security Forces squadron could not have reached its current state of health without Chenega. "Along with the outstanding defense they provide this base, they are the first impression for thousands of visitors and new Airmen every year," said the colonel. "We value the service these hard-working professionals have provided."