The Professional Air Liaison Officer

Book excerpt: This study investigates the Air Liaison Officer (ALO) duty, current manning, and training issues. The premise was that the ALO duty can be improved by developing an ALO career field. The current two-year tour does not provide continuity in the tactical air control party (TACP) mission. Most ALOs perform one tour and never perform the duty again. Anecdotal data from previous rated ALOs suggest the duty was very unpopular. A literature review identified the ALO task and manning issues. A survey instrument was developed to sample opinions and to answer questions. It was administered to ALOs and ROMADs (ETACs) to identify the perceptions of assigned personnel regarding their training, duty, and its affect on their career. Army staff officers and commanders were also included in this survey. The study indicated the ALO duty does not require a rated officer. The duty requires skills and knowledge that can be learned and developed through an initial training period of six to nine months. An ALO career field would benefit the Air Force by providing a constant pool of qualified and devoted ALOs.