Guard, Reserves offer options Published Jan. 28, 2014 By Airman 1st Class Ryan Zeski 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Reaching the end of an enlistment or separating early from the military doesn't necessarily mean a career is over. The Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve have options for continuing service in the United States Military. The ANG and AFR are reserve military forces composed of military members of units of each state and territories. Active duty members who reach the end of their enlistment are eligible for the Palace Front Program. This program allows Airmen to join the ANG or AFR upon reaching their date of separation. The Palace Chase Program is where Airmen are able to volunteer to transfer from active duty to guard or reserve. Eligible members must complete at least half of their enlistment in order to palace chase. Working as a "traditional" guardsman or reservist provides Airmen with a schedule of two days a month and two continuous weeks a year. It's possible for Airmen to remain in the same career field or explore cross-training options to get them where they need to be. While serving in these branches, Airmen are able to receive numerous benefits they did as active duty. A benefit of the Air Force Reserve is the availability of tuition assistance. Other benefits in the guard or reserve include low cost medical coverage, access to the commissary and Base Exchange, and civilian employment protection. For a complete list of all the benefits, contact a local ANG or AFR recruiter. "It's important for individuals to know their options and make an informed decision," said Master Sgt. Charles Gillespie, 92nd Force Support Squadron Air Force Reserve in-service recruiter. Gillespie is the AFR in-service recruiter for Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho; he encourages Airmen to get as much information as possible in order to make the best decision for them. Gillespie can be reached at (509) 247-2976 for any information concerning the AFR. Available Reserve postions are listed on the AFPC secure Web site at https://w20.afpc.randolph.af.mil/RMVSNet20/VacancySummary.aspx