In-service reserve recruiters offer Airmen career options

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Andrea F. Liechti
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
Airmen who have served our country with pride but are looking to separate from active-duty service have many options available to them.

The new in-service reserve recruiter for the 307th Bomb Wing, Master Sgt. Joseph McCormick, is prepared to help guide Airmen who are unsure of which career path they will take. Should they stay active, transfer to reserves or enter the civilian workforce?

"My goal is to figure out what is best for each Airman," McCormick said. "I don't want Airmen to separate from the Air Force without plans or goals in mind. I want the opportunity to inform them of all their options."

The first option Airmen have is the Palace Front program. This program allows Airmen to make a smooth transition to the Air Force Reserves once their active-duty contract has been fulfilled. It provides a part-time paycheck to help Airmen transition away from active-duty. Palace Front briefings are held Mondays at 8:30 a.m. in Room 203 of the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

The second option Airmen have is to apply for the Palace Chase program. Palace Chase allows Airmen to transfer to the reserves before they have completed their active-duty contract.

"This program is a great fit for Airmen who are struggling with the active-duty lifestyle," said McCormick. "It allows them to fulfill their service desires while living close to family and friends."

The Palace Chase program recently lifted some of its application requirements to help the Air Force achieve its downsizing obligation, he said. Airmen no longer need to fulfill half of their active-duty contract. They just need to be in good-standing with their physical training test scores and cannot be on any medical profiles. The Palace Chase briefings are held Mondays at 1 p.m in Room 203 of the A&FRC.

Although these programs aren't a fit for everyone, Master Sgt. Steven Bender, 307 BW assistant senior recruiter, wants to make sure Airmen are aware of them.

"We try to mentor people to make good decisions," he said. "We want our Airmen to be responsible and understand where their actions will take them."

For Airmen looking to separate, it may be best to stay active, McCormick said. Speaking with the in-service recruiters can help Airmen understand the benefits to having a steady paycheck and housing and food allowances.

The in-service reserve recruiters at Barksdale want to make sure the decisions Airmen make will help them prosper with their careers and life goals.

"It is a big responsibility, but one I enjoy," McCormick said. "I'm looking forward to helping Airmen out and making a difference in their lives."

To set up an appointment with the in-service recruiters, stop by their office in the Airman and Family Readiness Center or contact them at 529-3029.

For more information about the Palace Chase and Palace Front programs visit afreserve.com.