ARLINGTON, Va., - With the help of precision recruiting, the Air
National Guard could benefit from yesterday's force management announcement
by the U.S. Air Force, Guard officials said today.
"Commanders will always be looking for trained, ready and willing Airmen,"
said Air Force Col. Mary Salcido, the director of Air Guard Recruiting and
Retention.
According to a news release, fewer Airmen than anticipated applied for
voluntary programs offered under Phase One of the force management program
initiated in November 2009, so the Air Force is expanding its program to
encourage more Airmen to apply for separation or retirement by Sept. 1, or
earlier.
The Air Guard's authorized end strength is 106,700, and it still needs to
fill officer vacancies and certain career fields, such as medical, cyber and
battlefield Airmen.
Salcido said as these separating Airmen begin the process of returning home,
they should consider filling the needs of their local Guard units and
possibly continue their Air Force career.
Air Force leaders detailed several measures designed to bring the service
closer to its authorized end strength of 331,700.
On the officer side, the Air Force plans to lower the reserve obligation for
Palace Chase transfers from a three-year commitment ratio to one year for
each remaining year of active duty service commitment. Palace Chase transfers
are also available for enlisted personnel with a one-to-one rather than a
two-to-one-year commitment.
In-service recruiters at Air Force bases around the country will be the key
to reaching these Airmen, Salcido said. The Guard currently has about 12 of
these recruiters available.
Air Force officials also encouraged those who separate or retire to consider
civilian positions with the Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve or
Department of Defense.