Incirlik participates in Military Saves Week

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Kimberly Nagle
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Military Saves Week, which will take place Feb. 26 through March 3, 2018, at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, has been a part of the Department of Defense’s Financial Readiness Campaign and a partner of the DoD since 2003.  

“The week seeks to persuade, motivate and encourage military families to save money every month, and to convince leaders and organizations to be aggressive in promoting automatic savings,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Robert Smith, Airmen and Family Readiness Center superintendent. “It provides opportunities for the military community to focus on the financial readiness of our service members and their families, including the reduction of debt and saving to meet personal or family goals.” 

While stationed at Incirlik, Airmen are eligible for the Savings Deposit Program, allowing individuals in the program to invest up to $10,000.

“You receive a guaranteed 10 percent annual interest, which is compounded quarterly,” said Dana Cozzens, A&FRC Community Readiness consultant. “You can keep the money in your account up to three months after you leave [Incirlik]. Speak with the finance office about contributing to this program here, while you are making the extra money.”

The event hosted by the A&FRC, throughout the week, will endorse the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s financial readiness initiative and enhance mission readiness. Members of Incirlik AB will have opportunities to enhance their financial knowledge with personal financial management classes, such as investing basics, home/car buying and tax-free benefits.

“These events provide a great opportunity for our service members to place a priority on financial responsibility and focus on healthy savings behaviors,” said Smith. “Whether it's getting out of debt, building an emergency fund or saving for retirement, we want everyone to take this week to focus on setting a financial goal and making a plan and have a little fun while they're at it.”

For more information on financial readiness or to register for a class, contact the A&FRC at 676-6755.