Robins Air Force Base, Ga. -- This summer, the 78th Mission Support Squadron and the 78th Services Division will merge to become the 78th Force Support Squadron. The standing up of the 78th FSS is part of a Program Action Decision. All Air Force bases are projected to be in this structure by 2010, with most merging in summer 2008 or summer 2009.

"The Air Force began conducting research in 2007 with six provisional squadrons," said Maj. Devin Statham, the 78th Mission Support Squadron commander. "The Air Force asked each of the squadrons to conduct the merger in a different way in order to provide the best possible solution to the overall merger."

By combining, the units will synergize their processes, improve customer service and ultimately save money.

The 78th FSS will consist of five flights: manpower and personnel, sustainment services, Airmen and family services, force development and community services.

This new structure will also combine functional areas that already work closely with one another. For example, sustainment services will provide food, fitness and sports, and lodging operations.

Customers will continue to go to the same places or offices to receive their services after the merger.

"Operations will pretty much remain the same, with most changes being transparent to the customer," said Ed Miles, 78th Services Division director. "After the merge, providing Team Robins with world class service and support will remain job one with us." While the activation of the 78th FSS will not take place until July 2008, both units are starting to get together for different types of activities.

"We have started combining our commanders' calls and also are getting together for monthly social events," said Maj. Eddie Taylor, 78th MSS deputy commander. "This will pay huge dividends when we actually merge because parts of units will be working closely together. For example, our casualty affairs office will be collocated with our mortuary affairs office."

The merge of Services and Mission Support has been coming for some time now. Officials said it is an exciting time for both career fields and hopefully the beginning of something that will be successful and long-enduring for the Air Force.