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Reenlistment headaches can be avoided by starting early

  • Published
  • By Brandice J. O'Brien
  • Tinker Public Affairs
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Each month, roughly 100 to 120 enlisted Airmen become eligible for reenlistment at Tinker. But, if they wait until the month before the date of separation to start the process, it can cause headaches and issues for officials and Airmen alike. To avoid the hassle, Airmen should initiate the process at least three months before the date of separation.

The 72nd Force Support Squadron Reenlistment and Extensions office can project reenlistments six months out. With five to three months' notice, the office can schedule Airmen to attend the mandatory reenlistment briefing and complete Air Force forms on time.

"When Airmen wait until the last minute to make a decision to continue their Air Force career, they are increasing the risk of experiencing pay complications," said Airman 1st Class James Selby, Reenlistment Extensions journeyman. "It happens when Airmen get within 60 days of their separation date, we can no longer update their reenlistment at base level. The contract must be sent to the Air Force Personnel Center upon completion of reenlistment, in order to cancel the member's projected separation. Once AFPC does their part, the reenlistments office has 12 hours to ensure the finance and personnel system reflects the new separation dates. Any glitch in that process or in the systems can cause an unanticipated financial strain on the customer."

Airmen who have questions about reenlisting or extending can call the base reenlistments office at 739-2975. Those reenlisting will receive an Air Force Form 901, which requires their commander's signature. Airmen must reenlist within 10 days of receiving the signature. Airmen will also be given a Department of Defense Form 4, which is the actual reenlistment form. The Form 4 is picked up the day before the reenlistment and brought back in on the day the Airman reenlists.

The reenlistments office holds briefings every day for those wanting to reenlist or extend. The briefing covers Uniform Code of Military Justice Article 137. To schedule a time, call 739-2975 or email the organizational account at 72fss.fsmpd.reenlistments @us.af.mil. For more information, call 739-5811. For separations questions, call AFPC Help Desk at DSN 665-0102, for reenlistments/extension questions call 739-2975.