News

Deployed Reservists can stay connected with families despite phone operation change

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Jake Chappelle
  • 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  Despite changes to the installation telephone operations contract, deployed Reservists still have a way to keep in contact with their families.

The Hearts-Apart Morale Call Program is set up to allow up to two immediate family members or significant others the use of the Defense Switch Network for morale calls to their loved ones down range.

The program allows Reservists in unaccompanied status to use DSN lines at overseas remote locations to contact their family at their residence, said Carl Supplee, 446th Mission Support Squadron Airmen & Family Readiness director. The deployed member has to be on temporary duty at least 14 days.

However, due to changes in the telephone operations contract being worked out, family members can no longer make calls from their homes. They will have to make a reservation with A&FR and place their call during normal duty hours.

Arrangements have been made with the Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., telephone operations section for Reservists who reside in eastern Washington. The families can call the Fairchild AFB operator to connect them with the deployed Reservist.

"McChord family members (who live in eastern Washington) will be able to place HAP calls through the Fairchild operator," said Mr. Supplee. "This is just a temporary fix until everything gets worked out."

For families in western Washington who would like to place a HAP call, call the Airmen & Family Readiness Center at (253) 982-5330 to make the proper arrangements. Family members in eastern Washington should call the Fairchild AFB operator at (509) 247-1110.

Another way for deployed Reservists to keep in contact with their families is through the Air Force Automated Health and Morale System.

AHAMS allows deployed people to make a DSN call with a PIN, which lets them talk to their families a total of 30 minutes per week.

Reservists should request their PIN access prior to their deployment. Once they have their PIN, they can dial the AHAMS at DSN 982-2426 to make their call.

Reservists who are down range and don't have a PIN can request one by calling DSN 982-2561 between 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. PST.