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Getting Airmen back on track

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Janelle Patiño
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Many people come across challenges and struggles during their time in the military. If there are times when you think poorly of yourself, whether it's at work or home, there are people to help you get back on track.

The base chapel created a program for Airmen called the Phoenix Star Program to facilitate Airmen's successful reintegration into their perspective unit with a new sense of purpose and mission or assist them in their transition to another assignment or civilian life.

"The chapel is here to give people a momentary break from the mission," said Tech. Sgt. Jerry Britt, 92nd Air Refueling Wing NCO in charge of resource management. "Personal issues overcome us sometimes and the chapel is here to help them realize those are just some challenges that can be resolved."

The Phoenix Star Program started in March 2012 and is managed by Chaplain (Lt. Col.) James Glass, 92nd Air Refueling Wing chaplain. Airmen are provided supervision, daily duties and a positive, clear vision and focus for the term of assignment.

"Airmen will be helping out with the chapel and assisting us with events we hold," said Britt. "They are usually allowed to be in the program for six to eight months if they need to."

Before contacting the chapel, it is required to get your leadership involved such as your supervisor and commander.

"The chaplain, commander and supervisor get together to decide whether it's reasonable for the individual to be in the program," he said. "We also have them sign a contract stating rules and regulations while assigned to the program."

Airman 1st Class Brittany Gibson, a participant of the program, highly recommends the program for people experiencing challenging and struggling times.

"I like how I'm always around positive people and how I can always utilize the sanctuary," she said. "It makes you appreciate a different perspective of the military and life itself. It's a perfect place to get yourself together and help you become a better person."

According to Britt, the chapel is open for everybody and is here to assist Airmen. They're here to listen and help in any way they can.

For more information regarding the program, contact the base chapel at (509) 247-2264.