New Yellow Ribbon program aims to bring military families closer

  • Published
  • By MSgt Shawn David McCowan
  • 301st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
FORT WORTH, TEXAS --  The 301st Fighter Wing successfully hosted its first Yellow Ribbon event on 25 July at the Radisson Hotel North in Fort Worth, Texas.
There were more than 50 members attending, along with spouses, children and members from the 917th Bomber Wing from Barksdale Air Force Base, La.
Activities included marriage and single parent workshops, financial management, education, and child and youth programs.
Representatives from TRICARE, Military One Source, VA benefits, Employer Support Group, Psychological Health, Legal Assistance, as well as our Chaplains, finance, and MPF were also present at the event to answer questions.
 "The goal is to prepare airmen and families for mobilization, and to reintegrate them with their families, communities, and employers upon return," said MSgt Thomas Blair, lead coordinator for the 301st Fighter Wing Yellow Ribbon program.
 Airmen attended the event in military status, and family members were authorized to travel on Invitational Travel Authorization (ITAs).
The Secretary of Defense initiated the program for airmen who are separated from their families for 90 days or more.
The second Yellow Ribbon event is being scheduled for September 2009. For more information please contact MSgt Thomas Blair at 817-782-7527 or e-mail: thomas.blair@carswell.af.mil.