CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
As I close on a 20-year career in the Air Force and begin the search for a second career, I can't help but think about the benefits the Air Force provided my family and me throughout the years.
As a first sergeant, I get a lot of Airmen who come to me for advice but the one question that stands out is "Why should I stay in?" I usually ask them if they are aware of their benefits. Most of us already know about the intangible benefits of an Air Force career: the honor of serving your country, proud military heritage and tradition, job security, a different and unique way of life, opportunities for personal growth and development, equal opportunities for jobs, promotions and recognition.
What about the tangible benefits? Well, here are some great reasons to stay. I pulled these from the AF benefits fact sheet and I feel they are excellent reasons to continue to serve. A comprehensive medical plan is one of the benefits afforded you and your family as an active duty member. What about time off? How many jobs offer two-and-a-half days of leave per month totaling 30 days of paid leave each year? Don't forget to include the family days when counting time off. What about retirement? One of the most attractive incentives of a military career is the retirement system that provides a monthly retirement income for those who serve a minimum of 20 years. Your retirement represents a considerable value over your life expectancy. While many civilian employees must contribute monetarily to their retirement, yours is provided based solely on your honorable service. Your installation services programs provide conveniently located, low-cost, professionally managed activities and entertainment. Programs include the golf course, child development center, skills development center, auto skills, aero club, community centers, swimming pool, enlisted club, intramural sports, bowling center, library, chapel, youth center, outdoor recreation and discounts on special events and off-base recreation areas through Information, Ticket and Tours.
Let's not forget education. The Air Force currently pays 100 percent of tuition up to $250 per credit hour ($4,500 annually) in off-duty courses with accredited schools. Now, I have only scratched the surface with the benefits listed above. The Air Force benefits fact sheet has almost 30 reasons to stay. You can stay informed of the benefits offered to you by going to http://ask.afpc.randolph.af.mil/main_content.asp and typing benefits fact sheet in the search field.