Air Force Looking Into New Leave Program

Before now, airmen who want to start a family or finish their education would have to juggle it all while still remaining active duty. 

 

But this new program would let service members get out of the air force to finish their goals with the guarantee that they can come back and pick up right where they left off.

 

It’s a program that Col. Trent Edwards says could work well at Maxwell Air Force Base.

 

:I think it could be well received by airmen. A lot of the details are still to be determined. Fortunately though we have a template. The united states navy has experimented with this and in fact it worked so well that they signed up for another three years. The key will be offering this to the right airmen,” said Col. Edwards.

 

While people are away from the Air Force, they would be placed in Individual Ready Reserve and not draw a paycheck or drill.

 

It’s something that they could only do once.

 

Major Michelle Gill says it’s been a big topic of conversation for airmen. 

 

“I have elderly parents who may need significant care in the future. This program will allow me to take care of my family and my service responsibiliy. I want to continue to serve the USAF and this program gives me the opportunity to do so even when faced with significant family or educational opportunities in the future,” said Maj. Gill.

 

“I think it’s a great opportunity for our airmen and I’m excited about it,” said Col. Edwards.

 

The initial program will cover 20 officers and 20 enlisted airmen. They haven’t said though how they will be picked.