CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
The Department of Defense has designated Feb. 25 through March 4 as Military Saves Week to encourage servicemembers and their families to establish savings goals and set money aside for emergencies and other needs.
Charleston AFB is supporting this effort by asking Airmen, retirees, civilian employees and family members to join Military Saves as part of Operation Financial Fitness.
This campaign is not only important to Charleston, but to all individuals," said Barbara Lang, Airman and Family Readiness Flight community readiness consultant. "Individual savings is at an all-time, historical low and we need to do a better job of it."
Saving money and alleviating debt require dedication, sacrifice and patience. Military Saves provides the necessary tools to help accomplish that financial mission, said Mrs. Lang.
Individuals simply make the commitment to save money on a regular basis to achieve their personal financial goals. Participants receive helpful financial tips and much-needed encouragement to continue their habits in saving.
This campaign was tested in all four branches of service between 2002 and early 2006. After preliminary tests at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., Fort Stewart, Ga., and Camp Lejeune, N.C., a successful campaign was implemented at Eglin AFB, Fla., February 2006.
Military Saves is an annual week-long campaign that will feature organization similar to the Combined Federal Campaign.
Military Saves is part of the nationwide campaign America Saves and is sponsored by Consumer Federation of America, the DOD, the National Association of Securities Dealers, the Investor Education Foundation and a nationwide network of Defense Credit Unions and Military Banks. As part of the DOD Financial Readiness Campaign, Military Saves encourages leaders, employees, retirees and family members to focus attention on encouraging troops to get out of debt and save money.
"An individual doesn't have to wait until the Military Saves campaign to begin saving and to participate," said Mrs. Lang. "This campaign is just one of many ways to bring an awareness to the consumer that saving is important."
America Saves is a social marketing campaign produced by CFA and more than 50 local and state campaign working groups.
There will be a variety of classes held at Naval Weapons Station Charleston throughout the week. Anyone is allowed to attend the classes. If you wish to participate, contact Mrs. Lang at 963-5448.
Visit www.militarysaves.org for more information or to sign up.