Air Force spouses attend force management seminar

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Brittain Crolley
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The 4th Force Support Squadron hosted a town hall meeting for military spouses, March 12, at the base theater in response to the Air Force's mandate to cut 25,000 Airmen during the next few years.

During the meeting, Airmen and their families were informed about upcoming force management programs and options available for those who want to voluntarily separate or who will meet retention boards.

"We conducted this town hall briefing to ensure spouses are armed with the same information military members were provided," said Master Sgt. Jennifer Desjardin, 4th FSS career development superintendent. "We understand the decisions that will need to be made are family decisions; this information will be helpful for all involved."

To accompany Desjardin's brief on the different programs, members of the Airman and Family Readiness Center, education office, Air Force Reserve and the Air National Guard also talked to spouses about the many services they provide in preparation for a life outside of active duty.

Leaders of the 4th Fighter Wing were also on hand to help answer questions and ease concerns family members had about the looming cutbacks.

"Unfortunately, we're going to see good Airmen asked to leave; to make one final commitment to service before self by not showing up to work anymore," said Col. Lamar Pettus, 4th Fighter Wing vice commander. "The most important thing you can do now is educate yourself on the different programs and make informed decisions based on what is best for your family. We want to take care of each and every one of you. This is why we hold these town halls and encourage open and honest communication to ensure you are prepared for your future."

Pettus also suggested that those planning to separate or who have been notified of eligibility for any of the boards should contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center to begin the transition assistance program immediately instead of waiting for the results.

For more information about any of the programs, call the subject matter expert at (919) 722-8713. To see a question and answer section from the town hall meeting, service members can visit https://seymourjohnson.eim.acc.af.mil/4th_fw/MSG/fss/FSM/default.aspx.