The 1st Special Operations Wing (1SOW) Protocol Team at Hurlburt Field, Florida is comprised of four members: a civilian Chief, a military NCOIC, and two military specialists assigned "with duties at". The team serves as trusted advisors to the Wing Commander and Deputy Commander, in addition to the Deputy Commanders of Operations and Sustainment, the Director of Staff, the Chief of Staff, 2 Group Commanders, 23 Squadron Commanders, and 12 Wing Staff Directors assigned to the 1 SOW. As the host wing protocol office for Hurlburt Field, they also advise and assist 40 partner / associate unit command teams, and 16 Major Command (MAJCOM) Staff Directors for protocol related matters.
The team is a not-for-profit organization that routinely assists with comprehensive planning, coordination, and collection of RSVP payments for special events, conferences, memorial services, official ceremonies and social functions within the host wing, and those tasked by the offices of the MAJCOM and higher levels of command.
Their office provides support for Distinguished Visitors to include General Officers, Flag Officers, and Senior Enlisted Leaders from U.S. and foreign services as well as Secretaries and Under Secretaries, U.S. Departments, U.S. and foreign civilian dignitaries, U.S. Senators and Congressmen. This support may include lodging coordination, business meals, and local transportation for all visiting dignitaries to include Military Air (MILAIR) flights. The team creates detailed plans known as itineraries to ensure the guest’s visit purpose and leadership’s intent are met appropriately. This may include, but is not limited to tours, recognition, conferences, office calls (meetings), aircraft static displays, and flight demonstrations.
The team personally meets / greets high ranking dignitaries upon arrival. When action officers are included, the protocol office advises / trains those assigned on escort duties through various phases of visits and how to apply knowledge of protocol etiquette, correspondence, and security directives, while maintaining a silent presence (standing by, prepared to assist on an as needed basis).
When not away assisting with event execution, the Protocol Office is open for walk in customer support from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for federal holidays and scheduled family days. Scheduled appointments are highly encouraged for efficiency. The protocol staff can be reached during normal duty hours at 850-884-4437 or through the 1 SOW Command Post after hours.