Al UDEID AIRBASE, Qatar –
Military finance professionals met for the Financial Management and Comptroller Forum December 4-7 on Al Udeid Airbase, Qatar.
The four-day forum was held to bring financial managers from across the Central Command area of responsibility together and teach best practices in finance operations, said Sgt. Maj. Herlitz Henderson, U.S. Army Central financial management sergeant major.
“The mission is to make sure that when we leave here, we leave with one understanding, we are more empowered, we are more knowledgeable,” said Henderson. “When we leave here, we are better able to and more equipped to execute the budget.”
Funding is required to support missions and without it, Soldiers and contractors could not get paid, said Sgt. Maj. Christopher Hosten,
“It has a direct impact even before entering the battlefield,” said Hosten.
“Now we have leaders from the various services talking to each other, exchanging ideas, and then it is taken back to the different service agencies.”
Henderson also agreed on the importance of financial readiness between the branches.
“Everything requires money and if someone is not sure how to execute the budget, it might impede readiness, but once it is clear in everyone’s mind, then it will make us more ready,” said Henderson.
Many speakers presented during the conference and addressed topics from current technology to the military’s initiative, “Using Money As A Weapons System.” A common theme arose from the talks: teamwork.
“When we come together as a team, we have the ability to clarify some of the things that can be confusing,” said Henderson.
The financial leaders were also given an opportunity the work together as they completed a team-building physical fitness competition.
The contest consisted of a buddy carry, push-ups, squats, and other events that encouraged teamwork while allowing the participants to enjoy some friendly competition.
The forum meets each year to discuss new questions that arise and changes to policy.