JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING, Washington, D.C. –
The crisp crackle of a speaker signals the beginning of a ceremony. Soon after, attendees rose as the vibrant colors of the U.S. flag waved past them while the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard marched by. The master of ceremonies starts their speech as one team watches closely, making sure the event continues without a hitch.
The small details that may not be noticed are elements in which the four-member 11th Wing Protocol Office take pride in perfecting. The office leads planning and execution of official events hosted or presided over by members of the 11th Wing command team.
Protocol offices also ensure guest experience and interactions with planners, hosts and honorees are first-class from the moment of first contact to conclusion.
“We want to make sure that anyone attending events, from the hosts and guests to the commander, will leave the event feeling like something great just took place,” said Angelina Morlock, 11th WG protocol specialist.
To make this possible, the team focuses on procedures, provides guidance and ensures that Air Force respect is on display through decorum, flag displays, customs and courtesies during official ceremonies, social functions, special events, conferences, and the hosting of distinguished visitors.
“There are procedures that need to take place, and we are the ones that ensure those standards are being met,” Morlock said. “From the details of how close we have seats arranged to the proper introduction of distinguished guests, we hold our office to the highest expectations. We aim to provide the best guidance and service we can provide.”
Over the last year, the team has provided direction and coordination to more than 160 events and projects in support of JBAB, its 74 mission partners, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force and foreign counterparts.
“We want to help people understand that protocol is available to help out with more things,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Julia Cuevas, 11th WG protocol specialist. “Reach out to us for guidance and help to make sure that whenever an event is being put on, we are putting our best foot forward.”
The team dedicates weeks to each event, from details in speeches to building relations and honoring rank, all the elements and logistics of these events or visits are planned, rehearsed and executed by the office. These tasks are meaningful and vital in upholding the integrity of protocol offices across the world.