Incirlik Airmen focus on financial readiness

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Eboni Reams
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  More than 350 Airmen attended United States Air Forces in Europe's first financial summit at the base fitness center here Oct. 3.

Experts in financial education, legal rights and investment opportunities briefed the Airmen on the importance of financial readiness. They stressed that in order to maintain readiness, members needed to stay on top of their bills and plan for their futures. They also educated Airmen on the rights they have as military members should the circumstances require legal aid.

In an effort to help connect with the various demographics of Airmen, a variety of guest speakers, senior noncommissioned officers, as well as more junior NCOs were selected to share their financial lessons, their hardships and their triumphs.

"The most helpful part of the financial summit was the group interactions, and the personal experiences and successes shared," said Tech Sgt Fatimat Bello, 39th Air Base Wing safety office NCO in-charge of investigations.

Tools to help build financial success like budgeting and saving are touted often. Agencies like the Airman & Family Readiness Center can provide Airmen with these and many other services to help Airmen remain ready, to remain fit, and to remain ready now.

Evan Ramsey, 39th Force Support Squadron, chief of education and training, also shared information on the requirements needed to switch benefits with spouses and dependents and other helpful tips on education beyond military service.

"We want every Airman to have the tools they need to provide a better life for them and their families," said Col. Craig Wills, 39thAir Base Wing commander. "The U.S. Air Force offers a tremendous amount of benefits but at the end of the day it's the Airmen who have to manage those benefits wisely.
"Someday we're all going to leave the Air Force, and when that day comes it's really important that we're in a good position to take care of ourselves and our family," Wills said. "I'm hoping everybody has a really long and happy life, and being financially fit is a big part of that."

Incirlik AB will also host a workshop on financial readiness Oct. 6-9. For more information contact Sam Smith, A&FRC director at 676-7014.