ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The 97th Comptroller Squadron Financial Analysis Flight teamed up with the 97th Contracting Squadron to close out the 2021 fiscal year, which totaled more than $161 million, Sept. 30, 2021.
The 97th CPTS FMA and 97th CONS close out is an annual event that utilizes the month of September to finalize all purchases the 97th Air Mobility Wing made throughout the fiscal year.
“Each day we work from three different perspectives. The past, the present and of course the future,” said Gary Bearden, 97th CPTS lead budget analyst. “In terms of the past, we validate prior obligations that have not been expensed yet. We want to ensure those funds get spent the way we plan for them to. For the future, we're identifying, prioritizing and reporting an execution plan.”
During the fiscal year, many units prepare for the close out several months in advance. Financial budget analysts come together with squadron resource advisors to ensure every squadron has spent their yearly budget.
“We encourage resource advisors to get ready throughout the year; get the forms in the system so the contracting squadron has a chance to review them,” said Kathleen Marshall, 97th CPTS lead budget analyst. “We work together hand-in-hand with contracting to make sure we are an essential part of the process.”
The 97th CONS plays a crucial role in the end-of-year close out because most of the money goes through their squadron to disperse the requested items to other squadrons.
“The resource advisors get with leadership to find out the priorities for their individual squadrons,” said Lori Clinton, 97th CONS director of business operations. “Then, we work with the resource advisors to get requirements packages and solicit for the requirements through the government contracting process in order to get what they actually need.”
The Mighty 97th has made vast improvements to the installation like covered parking for dorm residents and a new running track. However, it is the small things that support the mission the most, which all go through the 97th CONS.
“Without these supplies, like the flight bag for the pilots, cold weather gear for the logistics readiness squadron or even the student uniforms, all these things add up to enable everyone to accomplish their mission,” said Clinton. “We are buying the necessities for Airmen to fly, fight and win.”