Yellow ribbon: Info you need to know Published April 13, 2012 By Staff Sgt. Danielle Johnston 442nd FW/PA WHITEMAN AFB, Mo. -- Maj. Dennis Saugstad, 442nd Fighter Wing Yellow Ribbon coordinator, is responsible for ensuring members know about events that will support them and their families prior to - and after - deployments. Saugstad sat down for a question and answer session to spread the word on this program and how people can get involved. What is Yellow Ribbon? Saugstad: The Yellow Ribbon Program is a congressionally mandated program that is intended to provide military reservists and their families a forum to gather information on the resources and benefits available to them before and after deploying for 90 days or longer. It's a fantastic way to reconnect with those close to you in a premium venue and a location that has plenty of activities. It is simply a good deal and you will come out knowing something you didn't know about the resources available to you and your family. Are there different Yellow Ribbon Regions? Saugstad: Yes. The 917th Fighter Group, a geographically separated unit at Barksdale AFB, La., for Yellow Ribbon purposes, is located in the South YR Region while Whiteman AFB, Mo., is in the North Region. The South and North regions host separate Yellow Ribbon events. This is done to keep the events to a manageable size and other administrative efficiencies. Which events can I go to? Saugstad: Barksdale reservists will typically attend a South Region event while Whiteman folks go to the North events. There is a Yellow Ribbon program manager at Barksdale who, like me, plans and executes these events. His name is Master Sgt. Harold Starkey. He and I will both be sending out information about our respective regional events. Even if you get a copy of the e-invitation link for an out-of-region event, please do not register before contacting us individually. How many events may I attend? Saugstad: Each member may attend two post-deployment events. Why attend two? There are now different sets of breakout sessions the first or second post-deployment attendees. Here is the catch - you remain eligible for just six months after the end of your deployment, so don't delay your decision or wait for the perfect location. Is it only for families? Saugstad: No! By now most of you have heard this is a great event for you and your family. However, pay and benefits affects us all. And there are activities specifically tailored to singles. You can also bring designated individuals, such as a parent, sibling, roommate, or fiancé. Think, "Who helped pay my bills and watched my stuff" while deployed. Those people may attend as your guests. Technical alert! If you wish to bring non-family members (those not a spouse, parent, or sibling) you must first contact me or Master Sgt. Starkey for the request form to denote them a "designated individual." Otherwise you will have to pay their way. Extra Days Saugstad: If you can take a few extra days off work, you are highly encouraged to come early or stay late and enjoy the local attractions. Please note these are not duty days and while your airline tickets home are covered, other expenses (lodging, per diem) are not. Just as importantly, you must get permission from your military or civilian supervisor for leave/vacation time. OK, I know all of this already. When are the Yellow Ribbon events? Saugstad: Here is what we know at this point about upcoming events. I expect there to be events in May, and into the summer, but there are no firm dates or locations for upcoming events. I wish we had a firm schedule for the rest of the year so folks can make plans for the summer, but that hasn't come down from higher headquarters. The good news is Yellow Ribbon events have occurred every month since October. I would expect that trend to continue, though it's always possible a month could be skipped. Air Force Reserve Command usually completes the contract for the hotel and conference venue about four to six weeks out. How will we find out about the events? Saugstad: As soon as Yellow Ribbon events are announced I will send a marketing e-mail to all the addresses I have, but also need word-of-mouth help to keep folks informed, especially while you are traveling home and on leave. You should also keep an eye on the 442nd Fighter Wing public website at www.442fw.afrc.af.mil and on Facebook, search 442nd Fighter Wing. Anyone who seeks more knowledge on this subject can email Saugstad at Leesaugstada10@gmail.com or call him at (660) 687-2738/2740.