Depot needs security guards
By Ronica Brandenburg/Register News Writer

Approximately 40 federal security guard positions are still waiting to be filled at the Blue Grass Army Depot and the urgency for more security is increasing every day.

“In the next few years, we'll have to double the amount of security guards because of the destruction facility,” said Dave Easter, public information officer for the Blue Grass Army Depot.

Easter was speaking of the chemical weapons destruction pilot plant that will begin construction this year.

The security guard positions are available only to those who have served in the armed forces.

“We're looking for better ways to hire local veterans,” Easter said. “Federal law gives priority to veterans and special consideration for combat veterans.”

The security positions have been difficult to fill because many local veterans do not know they have priority in hiring, Easter said.

The depot has responded to the need by placing paid advertising in local newspapers and entering into a partnering initiative with Kentucky's Job Centers, the Veteran's Administration and local military recruiting offices.

Anyone who applies for the position will be automatically enrolled in the Army's Personal Liability Program that entails an extensive background check. Based on Army regulations, if suspicious behavior begins or if an ulterior motive is displayed by an employee, he or she suspended from duty while the investigation is conducted.

“We're looking for the best, but I also know that the Army's application system can be frustrating,” Easter said.

There are many ways for veterans to get help while applying for a position at the depot, he said.

Veterans in the Madison County and surrounding counties can apply for these positions through the Richmond Central Kentucky Job Center at 595 Keeneland Drive. There is a Veterans Administration representative there to assist veterans in using the web-based application process. Veterans outside of the immediate area can get application information at any of Kentucky's Job Centers or Veterans Administration Offices.

Resumes also can be delivered along with discharge papers (referred to as a DD 214) to the Civilian Personnel Advisory Center at the Blue Grass Army Depot. The office is located just inside the main entrance on the left. The Advisory Center staff will then assist veterans with the application process.

Ronica Brandenburg can be reached at rbrandenburg@ richmondregister.com or 623-1669, Ext. 234.