PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Transitioning from the active-duty Air Force to the Air Force Reserve can be a life-changing decision. However, Airmen do not have to navigate through the process on their own. In-service recruiters provide insight for Airmen to help navigate the changes in benefits, pay, skills, training and retirement options.
Master Sgt. Jeni LaPlant, the 21st Force Support Squadron’s in-service recruiter, is available to provide Airmen advice and counsel to help them make an educated career decision.
“My primary function is to assist anyone who is looking to transition from active duty to serving in the Reserve,” said LaPlant. “Currently we provide assistance for two different programs, Palace Chase and Palace Front.”
The Palace Chase program allows Airmen to transition from the active-duty component to a reserve component to finish their service commitment.
“Enlisted members halfway though their obligation and commissioned officers who have completed two-thirds of their obligations are eligible to apply,” she said. “The program is a force management tool for active duty, and acceptance is based on career field manning and approval from the Airman’s functional career field manager.”
If Airmen have completed their contract commitment, but want to continue serving in the Air Force Reserve, they can apply for the Palace Front program.
“The Palace Front program is designed for members reaching the end of their commitment,” she said. “For those Airmen, this facilitates the transition over to the reserve component without a break in service with some great benefits for part-time service.”
Airmen can begin the process by completing an online checklist available on the Virtual Military Personnel Flight website.
“I assist Airmen submitting their applications via the vMPF, checking it line by line,” she said. “The members are already stressed with all the requirements of transitioning out of the military, so let the experts help you on this end. I can place you anywhere in the country, not just in the local area.”
For Airmen who are unsure whether they want to make the transition, LaPlant is available for mentoring sessions to discuss options.
“There are many cases where we counsel members considering the programs and recommend they do not apply,” she said. “There have been cases where after we have counseled members they decided not to submit their packages because it was in their best interest to stay on active duty. I truly want what is best for the member.”
Laplant also helps Airmen with position and unit allocation within a respective reserve unit upon approval.
“If the Reserve is the right fit, they retrieve a few documents, get medically cleared and we find them a job,” she said. “Always have a plan and a backup plan. The Air Force Reserve has so many opportunities that can change as our lives change. It is the best decision I have ever made.”
Airmen interested in or who need assistance with Palace Chase or Palace Front applications can contact the in-service recruiting office at 719-556-0151 or via email at jeni.laplant@us.af.mil.