Civilian workers returned to Scott Air Force Base today after almost a week on furlough because of the government shutdown. Their return was a result of a Department of Defense ruling that civilian workers whose mission contributes to “the morale, well-being, capabilities and readiness of service members” could return to the job with pay.
The 3,500 furloughed workers who returned to work today included civilians involved in everything from managing finances and administrative needs, to working with the base’s heating and cooling system. The base’s commissary also opened today after being closed for the duration of the furlough.
Chief of Public Affairs Karen Pettit said that military employees are happy to see the return of their civilian colleagues.
“We know the military folks are glad the civilians are back because they work side-by-side doing the missions,” Pettit said. “While they can sustain a short-term loss of that support, definitely they’re glad that it’s not a long term situation.”
The recalled workers will be paid starting today and get back pay when the government reopens.
Follow Kate Essig on Twitter: @kateessig
