If you've deployed recently, or are about to deploy, Yellow Ribbon event is for you Published April 8, 2014 By Sandra Pishner 446th Airlift Wing Public Affairs MCCHORD FIELD, Wash. -- Want to see the cherry blossoms in the other Washington this spring? If you are deploying, or recently returned from a deployment, take your family out to see the sights while you attend the next free Yellow Ribbon event in Washington D.C., May 16-18. Registration is open and the deadline is April 24. The Secretary of Defense-initiated Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program provides information, services, referral, and proactive outreach programs to servicemembers and their families through all phases of the deployment cycle. The goal of the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program is to prepare Airmen and families for mobilization, sustain families during mobilization, and reintegrate Airmen with their families, communities, and employers upon redeployment "It's a great time to come out and speak face-to-face with subject matter experts on all your military benefits," said Master Sgt. David Panelo, 446th Airlift Wing Yellow Ribbon Program coordinator. "Families will be introduced to some outstanding benefits they may not have even known about. I was in 20 years and did not realize some of the benefits." Panelo considers the time at a Yellow Ribbon event the best time to learn about benefits. "You're in a relaxed environment with your family. It is something you must absolutely take advantage of, as you can help others feel more comfortable about deploying if you have already been or vice versa, and can help better prepare them and your family, while networking with others," he said. Reservists qualify if they have been activated in support of an operational mission for 90 days or more. So whether you're currently activated, going to be activated or have previously been activated (within the last year) you and your family are eligible to attend. Reservists wishing to attend may bring their spouse and children, and single Airmen may bring parents, sibling, or designated individual. Those attending will be placed on Yellow Ribbon orders so that hotel cost, travel and meals will be reimbursed at the government rate. Free licensed professional childcare is available with structured fun activities for kids ages 0 to17. To sign up for this Yellow Ribbon event, visit this Web link: https://www.yellowribbonevents.org/Events/EventDetails.aspx?Mode=ReadOnly&Id=58C8FAEB-BAB8-42E1-A9C0-AF881899E866 Contact Panelow at 253-982-3736 for more information.