US Federal Government Shuts Down

Mattis Issues Guidance as Federal Government Shuts Down

(Source: US Department of Defense; issued Jan 20, 2018)

WASHINGTON --- The Defense Department will continue its mission to defend the people of the United States, American allies and U.S. vital interests around the world during the government shutdown that began at midnight, Defense Secretary James N. Mattis said in a memo.

“We will continue to execute daily operations around the world – ships and submarines will remain at sea, our aircraft will continue to fly and our warfighters will continue to pursue terrorists throughout the Middle East, Africa and South Asia,” the secretary said. “While training for reservists must be curtailed, active forces will stay at their posts adapting their training to achieve the least negative impact on our readiness to fight.

Commitment to Mitigate Impacts

“I recognize the consequences of a government shutdown,” Mattis wrote. “You have my personal commitment that the department’s leadership will do our best to mitigate the impacts of the disruptions and any financial burdens to you and your families.

“Steady as she goes – hold the line. I know the nation can count on you.”
Just before his signature, Mattis wrote “Stay alert.”

(ends)

SECAF/CSAF Letter to Airmen: Government Shutdown

(Source: US Air Force; issued Jan 20, 2018)

WASHINGTON --- Letter to Airmen

To the Airmen of the United States Air Force:

As you are no doubt aware, funding for the federal government expired at midnight. The administration is urging Congress to enact a short term continuing resolution to fund the federal government to allow Congress more time to finalize the budget for the remainder of this year. In the meantime, we have no choice but to comply with the law and conduct only those operations that are authorized for national security, health and safety.

Military personnel on active duty, including reservists on federal service, will continue to report for duty. Separate guidance will be provided to the Chief of the Air Force Reserve and Director of the Air National Guard pertaining to traditional Reservists and drill status Guardsmen.

Unfortunately, the shutdown requires we furlough all non-excepted civilian personnel until we receive an appropriation. This requirement is no reflection on how important you are to our team. We simply have no choice under the law. If you are not involved in excepted activities, you should still report as normal on your first scheduled workday after the shutdown. You will have paid time to conduct an orderly shutdown.

To understand whether your function is excepted from the shutdown, you should talk to your supervisor. The United States Office of Personnel Management is the lead agency for the Federal government.

We are concerned about all of you who are affected by this action. We have asked Commanders and Supervisors to talk to every one of you directly to ensure you have all the information and support we can provide. We want to make this as painless as possible, consistent with the law.

Thank you for your continued service and professionalism during this uncertain and challenging time.

-ends-

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