Improved AF Squadron Command Structure for Leadership, Accountability, and Afficiency

Book excerpt: "Throughout its history, the U.S. Air Force has periodically redesigned organizational structures. Rationale for these efforts varied from mission changes as well as manpower and resource reductions, but largely stemmed from efforts to improve efficiencies and mission performance. Over the last decade, several organizations and career fields have reorganized, realigned, or merged, resulting in squadrons encompassing greater responsibility and complexity. Since squadron commanders have legal responsibility for the mission and resources, senior leadership and the American people should reasonably expect them to be held accountable for their organizations' actions. Therefore, the squadron must be properly structured for manageable oversight to ensure justified accountability. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the adverse impacts inappropriate unit structure, size, and scope of responsibility have on squadron commanders' abilities to successfully lead personnel and accomplish their missions. It will also provide recommendations within current AF structure to improve unit and leadership effectiveness and efficiencies."--Introduction.