ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- To improve vehicle upkeep and operational efficiency, the 97th Logistics Readiness Squadron unveiled its updated wash rack at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, May 8, 2025.
The wash rack is a government facility designed to maintain the cleanliness and mission readiness of all government-owned vehicles on the installation. There are currently 372 government vehicles assigned to Altus AFB representing approximately $79 million in assets, all of which are required by Air Force mandate to remain clean and fully operational.
“Our assets need to be ready for deployment and capable of use at any point in time,” said Thomas Pride, 97th LRS motor vehicle operator trainer. “If there is any kind of dirt, grime, or debris, it can severely affect the condition of our vehicles and cause timeliness issues.”
According to Tech. Sgt. Pamela Proteau, 97th LRS noncommissioned officer in charge of ground transportation training, the wash rack had become increasingly difficult to use over the last 12 years and was completely inactive since 2023.
“Once funding was received, years of wear and tear required a full system overhaul,” said Proteau. “This included updates to the electrical and plumbing systems, as well as the addition of a brand-new vacuum system, which wasn’t part of the original setup at all.”
Restoring the facility presented its share of challenges.
“After the initial setup of the new systems, we experienced some water leaks and a few burst pipes, it was a process of trial and error to make sure everything was installed correctly,” said Proteau. “Since our contractors were from out of town, resolving issues often involved a lot of back-and-forth coordination.”
Despite the setbacks, the reopening of the wash rack marks an improvement in the wing’s ability to maintain its vehicle fleet and support mission readiness.
“Units are actually required to clean their vehicles before turning them in for maintenance,” said Proteau. “Having the wash rack operational again is important for the entire base. It helps ground transportation stay compliant, supports vehicle maintenance, and benefits all units responsible for maintaining government assets.”
The Altus Air Force Base wash rack is for official government use only.