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File: 970207_aadcr_008.txtrun by TAC wings. Although technically there was no differentia- tion between MAC and TAC as we all belonged to CENTCOM and CENTAF; in reality, that is not how things played out nor would I expect it to be different in the future. MAC assets and TAC assets were frequently at odds with each other and obtaining support as a TAC asset was easier than it would have been were we a MAC asset. This confusion as to whether we were a MAC or TAC asset repIayed itself many times throughout the course of our deployment. The resolution was that we remained a TAC asset but patient flow was determined by MAC (AECC & AECE). This worked well for us while deployed. One of the major disadvantages to our identity crises occurs in training for deployment and in annual training. As we were a relatively new entity, and our operations were not as clearly defined as would be desirable, many problems arose that required on the spot solutions. These solutions may not have been ideal, but they did work for us. Had more emphasis in training for APSS's been placed at command level prior to deployment, there would have been fewer problems or at least they could have been foreseen. The most glaring example is no Table of Allowances (TA) for a Tactical ASF for either supply or pharmacy. A TA exists for MASF's and peacetime ASF's but not for TASF's. (3) Recommendation: Further evaluation by higher headquarters is necessary to rethink command and control of TASF. Whether or not any changes are made, Command guidance needs to be improved for manning, training, and equipment. This process is underway. b. Improved Training for APSS: (1) Observation: Annual tour and peacetime training was inadequate to prepare us for operating a TASF. (2) Discussion: As this was our first experience with a Tactical ASF, there were many learning experiences. We now have a much greater appreciation for the training needs of a aeromedical patient staging squadron. It is critical that annual tours be geared towards operating not just an ASF but a Tactical ASF. This should include setup of a TASF much the same as ATM's do. Operational considerations also need to be identified and training accomplished. Annual tours could be scheduled to get operational details from an existing ASF while nearby a Tactical ASF could be set. For a short period the operations of the ASF could be run from the Tactical ASF. Additionally, all major exercises planned should include operating a tactical ASF. This would not only provide experience for the units assigned to the TASF but, just as important, provide experience for other units involved in the exercise to have contact with a tactical ASF. I feel it is critical that AE units and other tri-service medical units have as much contact with a TASF as possible in order for TASF's to be fully integrated into the Tactical Field and aeromedical environment.
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