Six years ago the Air Force created Air Expeditionary Force packages to rapidly deploy air and space power anywhere in the world.
The AEF concept has proven itself repeatedly during Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and IRAQI FREEDOM — improving predictability and stability while getting our Airmen to the fight.
Despite success with our Air and Space Expeditionary Force, two significant changes were needed to meet the demands of ongoing operations around the world. First, the new baseline deployment for the AEF increased from 90 to 120 days. This provides increased continuity to our deployed commanders who require the steady and stable expertise you bring to the fight.
The second change is to expand the number of Airmen available for AEF deployments. USAFE has already instituted measures to increase our available pool from 83% to 97%.
Today 1,176 USAFE Airmen are deployed in many different AORs from Afghanistan, to Iraq, to Africa while others are executing the fight from home. You are doing a great job and we thank you for your sacrifices. However, the work is not finished — we must continue to press ahead!
Increased predictability and stability for our Airmen are key benefits of the AEF, but only if you take advantage of the time you have. Now is the time to prepare for your next AEF deployment:
Prepare your family. There are many things you can do ahead of time to make deployments less stressful on the family: get your finances in order and maintain up to date family records in a central location, to name a few.
Ensure your training is current. Know what training is required and complete it on time. The last thing you want to do on your way out the door is spend time accomplishing overdue training.
Maintain a high degree of physical fitness. It’s tough to deploy and accomplish the mission if you’re physically run down or even worse on the sidelines sick. Fit to fight are words to live by.
We are all expeditionary Airmen serving in the world’s premier Air Force. AEF is more than a concept; it’s our way of life. Be prepared and stay vigilant!
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