News

Deploying? Take care of family, employers

  • Published
  • By Airman First Class Patrick Cabellon
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
With more than 180 Reservists set to deploy in 2009, there are many issues Reservists have to take care of before they leave. There are also two groups of people who in particular will need attention. 

Well-cared for families and employers are key to making a deployment go smoothly.
The staff at the Airman & Family Readiness Center are prepared to help Airmen plan for their deployment. 

"There are three main things which most Airmen require assistance with," said Tech. Sgt. Steven Thomas pointedly. "Relationships, employment and finances." 

The A&FRC staff has a checklist to make sure Reservists have everything in order on the home front before deploying. 

"If the Airman being deployed is married, we can help set up a budget for both spouses to abide by," said Sergeant Thomas. 

The A&FRC staff can also help keep morale up by giving families a call every 30 days to see how they're doing, gathering spouses for dinners, and offering emotional support and counseling. 

Once the family is all squared away, it's time to turn the focus on employers. 

Civilian employment difficulties can arise when a Reservist deploys. Most of these difficulties can be tempered when both the Reservist and employer have a good relationship, as well as a clear understanding of the law. The people with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve organization can help. 

The ESGR gains and maintains support from employers of Guard and Reserve members - which can be vital during deployments. In addition to the ESGR, the 446th AW Public Affairs office can help smooth out any difficulties. 

"It's very important to stay in touch with your employer while you are deployed," said Lt. Col. Anna Sullivan, chief of public affairs. "Always try to give your employer as much advance notice as possible when you'll be deploying, and let them know when they can expect you back on the job." 

If you have a fully-supportive employer, make sure you recognize that support with one of the award programs sponsored by the ESGR. 

For more information from the A&FRC, Airmen can stop by at any time during the duty day. The A&FRC is in Bldg. 1207, and can be reached by phone at 253-982-3909. More information about ESGR can be found on the World Wide Web at www.esgr.org or by calling 1-800-336-4590.