DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Dennis Waigand, 7th Maintenance Group budget analysts at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, recently earned the Under Secretary of Defense Comptroller Financial Management Award for Contributions to Taxpayer Dollar Optimization in Washington D.C., on August 30, 2023.
The award recognizes individuals who significantly contributed to optimizing support for the budget and execution process through innovating cost, evaluating performance and risk management, or fostering a high-integrity funds control environment.
“Waigand works hard every day for the Airmen of the 7th MXG and the entire installation,” said Col. Joshua Pope, 7th MXG commander. “He is always thinking of others, what they need, and how he can help. He squeezes every cent from every dollar, and this year alone his resourcefulness practically tripled our budget at zero additional cost to the Air Force, freeing up our budget for other needs.”
Waigand, known for his thriftiness, leverages his vast network of vendors and connections to barter for the best deal. Additionally, he utilizes a regional network of government surplus warehouses to obtain critical supplies, equipment, and quality-of-life items. He uses the savings to focus on mission essential equipment and innovative technology, such as the 7th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron’s wireless headset technology.
“His total savings this year were nearly $1.5 million,” said Pope. “This includes furniture for our maintenance squadrons; new ladders and construction supplies for the 7th Civil Engineer Squadron; spools of fiber optic cable and server racks for the 7th Communications Squadron; and shelving for the 7th Logistics Readiness Squadron.”
Waigand’s involvement with the 7th MXG, 7th LRS and 7th CS has significantly improved the Air Force Repair Enhancement Program, designed to fix throwaway aircraft components to save money. His efforts have brought over $3 million in extra funding for the 7th Bomb Wing. The money will be distributed amongst several units, giving them extra buying power to conclude this fiscal year.
“I wasn’t expecting to win at the DoD level,” said Waigand. “But I was honored and excited when I got the notification…helping Airmen get what they need to execute the mission, giving that little extra every day, and ensuring the job is completed with 100% accuracy is the main reason I work.”