Life after active duty: Know your options

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Krystal M. Garrett
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
For Air Commandos preparing to leave active duty service and interested in continuing serving in some capacity, or have questions about transitioning into the civilian world, there are two in-service recruiters at Hurlburt Field that are here to help.

Master Sgts’ Michael Perkins and John Fusco, in-service recruiters assigned to the 1st Special Operations Force Support Squadron, assist Air Commandos as they prepare to leave active duty military.

The in-service recruiter office is located in the 1st Special Operations Wing Headquarters building. Their hours are Monday thru Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and they are available to assist in the transition from active duty to the nexy phase of an Airman’s life.

“There are two options available for Airmen who transition from active duty,” Perkins said. “Palace Front and Palace Chase.”

Palace Front is a program for members who have elected to separate and are within six months of their separation date. Palace Chase is for members interested in leaving active duty, but aren’t near the end of their contract, yet have at least fulfilled half of it.

“Choosing either option allows for Airmen to continue serving, just in a different capacity,” Perkins said. “We are here to help make a decision based on the Airmen’s wants and needs.”

During a meeting with an in-service recruiter, Airmen will discuss the process and all paperwork needed to make the transition.

“We encourage those that are interested to make an appointment so we have the time to go in depth and help them make a sound decision on what is best for them,” he said. “Needs for each Airmen are different.”

Perkins believes it is important for Airmen to look at all opportunities when leaving active duty.

Airmen who have less than a year left in their service commitment will automatically receive an email notifying them of an upcoming Palace Front Separation briefing.

According to Air Force Instruction 36-3205, Applying for the Palace Chase and Palace Front Programs, requires all personnel separating from the Air Force receive counseling on the benefits of participating in the Air Force Reserve.

To schedule an appointment and for more information, contact Master Sgt. Michael Perkins or Master Sgt. John Fusco at 850-884-2656 or 850-884-5200.