OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea — The squadron that runs on-base clubs, dining halls and the library will merge with another support-related unit Friday.

The 51st Services Squadron and the 51st Mission Support Squadron will merge and be called the 51st Force Support Squadron, part of Osan’s 51st Fighter Wing, said Master Sgt. Paul A. Kilgallon, a wing spokesman.

The move comes as part of an ongoing Air Force-wide merger of its mission support and services squadrons, to be completed by early next year. The mergers are aimed at streamlining operations and cutting costs.

Services squadrons typically oversee base dining facilities, libraries, gyms, lodging and numerous other services, Kilgallon said.

Mission support squadrons handle personnel matters, including records, promotions, assignments, retirements, separation and family relocations, among others.

Osan’s new squadron will comprise five flights: force development, manpower and personnel, airmen and family services, sustainment services and community services.

Its services flight includes the food operations, fitness and wellness, and lodging branches.

Its development flight will oversee education, training, the library, professional development and military education.

"It’s advantageous for the careers for the wing to have one person overseeing and integrating the learning opportunities," Lt. Col. Randall Smith, 51st Mission Support Squadron commander, was quoted as saying in an article posted on the wing’s Web site.

"This is basically a behind-the-scenes change and should appear transparent to most airmen here," Maj. Mike Rakoczy, 51st Services Squadron commander, was quoted as saying in the article.

"If someone needs to go get an ID card or go to the Airman’s Attic, in most cases, that person will still go to the same location they’re familiar with today," the article quoted Rakoczy as saying.

But the wing will ensure that changes in locations or phone numbers are well-publicized, Kilgallon said.