Ramstein implements telephone service changes

by Senior Master Sgt. Faniko Brown
86th Communications Squadron Cyber Transport

Due to the current economic climate, Department of Defense personnel are focused on implementing leaner and more efficient policies. The 86th Communications Squadron had already taken measures to generate commercial telephone cost savings through the Personal Identification Number program during fiscal year 2012.

The 86th Communications Squadron will soon begin an effort to limit commercial access for government telephones across the KMC. These reductions should generate substantial cost savings and facilitate a more efficient management process for our military personnel without affecting our ability to dial any DSN phone.

“Everyone in the Air Force has been asked to look at how we can reduce our budget, and it’s important to target the things we can control,” said Lt. Col. John Zapata, 86th CS commander.

Only mission essential telephone lines will have commercial access. If a phone call needs to be made to an off-base number from a restricted telephone line, the member will call the base operator for assistance.

Each commander will identify a list of mission essential phone lines for worldwide access. All remaining lines will be limited to DSN access. However, exempted phones will still be able to make commercial phone calls worldwide.

The 86th Communications Squadron’s goal is to provide a seamless transition with zero negative mission impact to customers. Cyber Transport technicians will work hand in hand with each squadron to ensure everyone is educated on the new process and has given a listing of telephone lines that require commercial dialing access for official business.