Deployed reservists learn how to come home

  • Published
  • By Capt. Jessica Martin
  • 926th Group public affairs
San Diego, Calif. --  Members of the 926th Group who have recently returned from deployments overseas attended a reintegration event in San Diego, Calif., August 26-28.

The Western Regional Yellow Ribbon conference was held to assist Airmen transition back to life at home, while encouraging quality time with the family in a relaxing environment.

"I loved how Yellow Ribbon brought my whole family together," said Tech. Sgt. Chad Watson, 926th Force Support Squadron. "The events are a chance for the Air Force Reserve to give your family a little bit of TLC and a chance to be together after a long time apart."

Each event features a keynote speaker, helping agency experts, information tables, breakout discussions and activities for the children.

The San Diego event focused on areas of educational and health benefits, emotional well-being, resiliency, financial management, helping children cope with deployments, and civilian career opportunities.

"There are a lot of programs that need to be made known to all military members who deploy and their families," Watson said. "We received a lot of valuable information to help us with the post-deployment process."

Among the helping agency experts are several chaplains who attend the events to lead group discussions on relationship issues. They also provide worship services during the weekend and are available for confidential counseling.

"People mostly ask us what a deployment is going to be like and how to deal with stress," said Chaplain (Maj.) Craig Benson, March Air Reserve Base, Calif. "We find that they are looking for faith-based support for their families left behind."

Military attendees are authorized to bring family members or a friend to the event. Information and activities are abundant to help ease the Airmen and their support network back into the normal routine of life.

For more information on the Yellow Ribbon program, visit www.yellowribbon.mil. Members of the 926th GP interested in attending an event can contact their local representative at 702-652-0711.