Program helps returning reservists Published June 17, 2015 By Staff Sgt. Rachel Kocin 910th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- The Air Force Reserve offers many programs to assist Airmen returning from deployments. Several 910th Airmen recently completed the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) hosted by Airman and Family Readiness here, June 7, 2015. TAP, which is congressionally mandated, is designed to help Airmen who were activated or returned from a deployment of 180 days or more transition back to civilian life. The program is a multiple step process, beginning with a one hour pre-separation briefing. Airmen can then complete the five-day workshop or attend a Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits briefing. “The importance of this briefing is to educate and (increase) awareness to let veterans of all branches know the benefits that they could be potentially eligible for,” said Anthony Weeks, a VA benefit advisor. At the end of the program, military members complete a capstone which ensures all components of TAP are complete. The condensed briefing is available for those who cannot complete the entire five day program due to obligations such as fulltime employment or schooling. “We realize there may be some confusion about why reservists are mandated to go through TAP; however, it is an invaluable program focused on ensuring all military personnel succeed in their civilian careers,” said Kimberly Krohn, director of the 910th Airman and Family Readiness Center. Krohn recommends the five-day program because reservists learn the ins and outs of marketing themselves for successful civilian careers and also earn five retirement points, said Krohn. For more information on the program please contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center by visiting their webpage at http://www.youngstown.afrc.af.mil/Units/AirmenandFamilyReadiness.