Yellow Ribbon event for dependents Aug 3-5

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DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. --  Air Force Reserve Command is hosting a Yellow Ribbon reintegration event for spouses and dependents of currently deployed members at the World City Marriott in Orlando, Fla., Aug. 3-5.

Free childcare is provided by licensed professionals for dependents up to age 18.

"This event is to recognize spouses who are working diligently on the "home-front", in most cases, doing the work of two people by themselves", said Capt. Travis Shepard, Yellow Ribbon Program representative. "We want to extend an invitation for an all-expense paid trip to Florida for a weekend. The Air Force Reserve wants to thank you and offer any assistance that we can while your spouse is deployed."

Yellow Ribbon was established by the Department of Defense in 2008 to improve wellness and resiliency in DOD's reserve component members while informing spouses of the resources available to them.

Representatives from Tricare, Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve, Military OneSource, finance, education, legal, the Veterans Administration, and a cadre of chaplains will be available to answer questions.

Space is limited and attendees will be chosen on a first come, first serve basis.

To reserve, email Capt. Travis Shepard at travis.shepard.1@us.af.mil

In the subject line, please list your spouse's squadron and type "confirmation YR" afterwards.

FAQs:

Q: What makes me eligible?
A: If your spouse, or child's mother or father is currently deployed. You don't have to be married.

Q: Do I have to pay for my plane tickets?
A: No! The Air Force will reimburse you and your family's travel expenses, from wherever you live. (Everyone is enrolled inDEERs)

Q: Do I have to pay for my hotel room at this amazing hotel?
A: No! The Air Force will make your reservation and, and pay for your room. And yes, it is an amazing property.

Q: Who can come with me to Florida?
A: All your children, step-children or adopted children. (They must be registered in DEERs)

Q: What if I don't have kids; can I bring anyone else?
A: No, sorry. The Air Force will only reimburse for you and/or your children.

Q: What's on the agenda?
A: We will have tried-and-true speakers who have survived and thrived the same thing you are experiencing; forums for discussion, biggest mistakes I made and what wished I knew, resources for families, etc.

Q: What if I register but then need to cancel?
A: No worries! You won't incur any charges. Please give us no less than four days cancellation notice.

Q: How do I register?
A: To register, email Capt. Travis Shepard at travis.shepard.1@us.af.mil. In the subject line, please list your spouse's squadron and type "confirmation YR" afterwards.