Explore options with the Air Force Reserve

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Briana Jones
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Airmen separating from active-duty service may be overwhelmed with the thought of starting a new life outside of the military, but transitioning into the Air Force Reserve can give Airmen the opportunity to experience full-time civilian life, while still serving their country.

Master Sgt. Clark Gilleo, Aviano's in-service recruiter has helped more than 120 Airmen transfer into the Air Force Reserve. Reservists augment active-duty military forces on bases around the world by serving as chaplain's assistants, pararescuemen, dental assistants, paralegals and thousands more in other critical career fields.

There are plenty of opportunities for active-duty Airmen to transition to the Air Force Reserve using programs like Palace Chase and Palace Front.

The Palace Chase program allows Airmen to separate from active duty early and go directly into the Reeserve. Airmen whose applications are approved will waive their remaining active-duty time.

The Palace Front program allows Airmen ending their active-duty commitment to go straight into the Reserve without a break in service. Airmen can have a traditional part-time position secured with a unit of their choice before separating from active duty.

Staff Sgt. Kristi Craft, 31st Comptroller Squadron individual mobilization augmentee reservist, was active duty for 11 years before deciding to transition into the Reserve.

"If you want to have that freedom and be able to attend school full time, while still serving your country, the Air Force Reserve is something to think about," Craft said. "I believe the Reserve also gives me a lot of time to concentrate on starting a family, something that is very important to me."

An IMA is different than a traditional reservist because they are attached to an active-duty unit and the number of days served per year is determined by what billet they are augmenting in that unit. Traditional reservists work part-time jobs for the Air Force in an area they choose to live, and serve one weekend each month and two weeks each year.

"I like the continuity and the camaraderie the Reserve offers," Gilleo said. "For Airmen who are interested in being in the Reserve, I would suggest they explore their options, what they want to do after separating and what they look to get out of being in the Reserve."

Aviano will be receiving a new in-service recruiter expected to arrive late July or early August.

For more information, visit http://www.afreserve.com or http://www.aviano.af.mil/library/airforcerecruiter(europe)/index.asp