Military saves week helps save Airmen money Published Feb. 26, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Raughton 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs Barksdale Air Force Base, La. -- The goal of Military Saves Week, Feb. 24 to 28, is for Airmen to pledge to save money and make financially sound decisions. Military Saves, a component of the nonprofit America Saves and a partner in the Department of Defense's Financial Readiness Campaign, seeks to motivate, support, and encourage military families to save money, reduce debt, and build wealth, according to the Military Saves website. "In the last week of February, we focus on basic financial management," said Todd Makamson, Airman & Family Readiness Center director of personal financial management. "This year's theme is to make a plan, set a goal and save automatically." The A&FRC is also working with the Culture of Responsible Choices Committee to distribute financial information at tables located in various areas of the base, such as the Senior Airman Bryan R. Bell Fitness Center and the Exchange. According to a Military Saves fact sheet, the program also encourages saving a portion of each paycheck, developing a personal financial plan and establishing good credit. "The information can be useful," said Senior Airman Amber Rodriguez, 2nd Operations Squadron air traffic controller. "It can help Airmen keep track of their spending, especially with the current cutbacks." Military Saves materials and flyers may also contain a quick response code, which people can access Military Saves financial support with their smartphones. "Visit the website and take the saver's pledge," Makamson said. "Once you take the pledge, every month you'll get information from the military saves organization throughout the year. Every one of those emails will have some education information to it, whether it's saving or investing, all throughout the year." Those who take the pledge can also be given a link to obtain a free credit score, credit report and analysis, he said. Airmen and family members who are interested can find the pledge at www.militarysaves.org. "You have to be physically fit to serve," said Makamson. "We want you to be financially fit as well."