Palace Chase, Palace Front offer post-active-duty opportunities

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Anne Gathua
  • 17th Training Wing Public Affairs
GOODFELLOW AFB, Texas --  Making the transition from military to civilian life can be a daunting task. The change in lifestyle may be overwhelming, but for those who would like to keep ties with the Air Force without being full-time government employees, the Air Force Reserve component offers great opportunities.

The Palace Front program allows Air Force officers and enlisted members to transfer to the AFR the day after separation from the Air Force. This is for individuals who prefer to continue their military career without having a break in service. You must be honorably discharged from the Air Force and have no disqualifying medical conditions to be eligible for this program.

The Palace Chase program allows active duty Air Force officers and enlisted members to request transfer to the AFR. If an active duty member has completed at least 50 percent of their original contract, they may be eligible for this program.

Master Sgt. Dean Fitzpatrick is the AFR in-service recruiter for Goodfellow. His responsibility is to process Airmen separating from active-duty who have the desire to continue their service through the Palace Chase and Palace Front programs.

"I educate people on the opportunities available in the AFR for those interested in staying blue," said Master Sgt. Fitzpatrick. "Letting people know the options available out there is very rewarding for me. I show them a different way to continue their service to their country without giving up their daily lives. This information can open doors for them to complete their degrees and make anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000 a year. Joining the AFR also gives them additional educational benefits. To top the GI Bill, there is a tuition assistance program that helps cover college expenses," he added.

Master Sgt. Fitzpatrick, who helps make the transition to AFR smooth, urged Airmen interested in these programs to get the facts first before making the decision and to keep their documentation as far as PT scores and other Air Force related paperwork in good order.

For more information contact Master Sgt. Fitzpatrick at (325)654-3586 or DSN 477-3586 or visit Building 901. Office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday.