EVALUATION AND APPLICATION OF THE FIELD ORDERING OFFICER AND PAY AGENT PROGRAM WITHIN THE MARINE CORPS EXPEDITIONARY ADVANCED BASE OPERATIONS CONCEPT
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Authors
Good, Kendal T.
Stark, Joel A.
Subjects
field ordering officer
pay agent
unit pay agent
expeditionary advanced base operations
contingency operations
contingency contracting
pay agent
unit pay agent
expeditionary advanced base operations
contingency operations
contingency contracting
Advisors
Yoder, E. Cory
Sullivan, Ryan S.
Date of Issue
2024-12
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Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
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Abstract
The Marine Corps’ transition to Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) as outlined in Force Design 2030 (FD2030) necessitates innovative approaches to sustainment and logistics, particularly for small, dispersed units operating in contested environments. The Field Ordering Officer (FOO) and Pay Agent (PA) program is a critical micro-purchase tool that can address sustainment gaps through local procurement. However, the program currently faces challenges in personnel readiness, system integration and restrictive protocols that limit its effectiveness in austere and distributed environments. This study evaluates the FOO/PA program within the context of EABO using the Yoder Three Integrated Pillars of Success model to analyze its personnel, platforms and protocols. Data collected from after-action reports, interviews and exercises highlight issues such as inadequate training, high personnel turnover, reliance on electronic systems and outdated administrative procedures. The findings reveal a need for dedicated billets, expanded training, improved interoperability of procurement systems, and modernized policies to enhance flexibility and responsiveness. Recommendations aim to optimize the FOO/PA program for EABO by addressing identified gaps, ensuring it becomes a reliable and adaptable tool for sustaining Marine Corps forces in contested environments. This research contributes to the broader effort to modernize Marine Corps logistics and sustainment capabilities.
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Distribution Statement
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
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This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.