Airmen “stay blue” Published Nov. 23, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Valerie Hosea 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Airmen wishing to transition from active-duty military to the reserves learned how they live a life less demanding and "stay blue," during the Palace Chase informational briefing Nov. 20 at the Professional Development Center. "Palace Chase is a vehicle for active-duty Airmen to 'stay blue' if they feel that being full-time military isn't working," said Tech. Sgt. John Strenski, the base In-Service Air Force Reserve Recruiter from the 82nd Force Support Squadron. Airmen have to complete at least half of their enlistment to be eligible and re-enlisters can apply the day after their re-enlistment. "Airmen may apply as early as six months before their two-year or three-year mark (whichever is equivalent to half of their enlistment). However, whatever your current enlistment balance is on when you apply will double, not to exceed six years, if you are accepted into the Palace Chase program," Sergeant Strenski said. A common concern is that Airmen won't be admitted into the program because of their chain of command. "An important thing to know about doing Palace Chase is that your functional manager makes the final decision based on manning in the Air Force, not just the manning at your base and not at your shop," Sergeant Strenski said. He said some benefits include: pay and personal recognition; money for college; job training; camaraderie, satisfaction and pride; life insurance, medical care and re-employment rights; travel; special allowances; and the thrift savings plan and retirement. Sergeant Strenski said he is happy to invite interested Airmen into the Palace Chase program to join a team of more than 80,500 reservists. "It is an honor to be able to help these Airmen 'stay blue,'" he said. For more information about Palace Chase, call Sergeant Strenski at (940)676-3382.