RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE –
A free deployment simulation event for families of military members is scheduled for June 13 from 8:30 am -2:30 p.m.
Operation Families Learning About Global Support is a chance for families to experience the mobility process each of their loved ones go through prior to a deployment.
"This is our sixth time to host Operation FLAGS," said Master Sgt. Todd Remington, installation personnel, family readiness manager and Operation FLAGS coordinator said. "This one is going to be our biggest and best one yet."
Operation FLAGS is expected to include about 250 family members. Three groups will be formed, and will rotate through different stations to simulate different aspects of deployment.
The first group will be processed through a modified deployment line complete with representatives from mobility, chapel, military equal opportunity, medical group, family support, and military intelligence while the second group views static displays on the flight-line of aircraft. The last station is at the family support center, where participants see a weapons display and undergo an obstacle course and scavenger hunt.
Each child participant is issued a "war bag," including Operations FLAGS dog tags and ID card to keep as a souvenir. They will also receive a mock mobility folder to take with them to the processing line, adding to the reality of the experience.
Sergeant Remington said families understand some of what goes on when their loved one is preparing for a deployment, maybe we can eliminate some stress they may feel," said Sergeant Remington. "If we can eliminate some of the families stress at home, then hopefully it will spread to their family member downrange."
The event is open to all military members and their families.
"Some people think they have to have a family member deployed to come out, but that simply isn't the case," said Sergeant Remington. "We encourage everyone to come out, even if they don't have a family member on mobility status."
Deployments have become a way of life for members of the Air Force and this program is intended to educate as many people as possible, said Sergeant Remington.
After all of the families have visited the different stations, the entire group will meet at the family support center for free food and drinks.
Families are encouraged to sign up at the family support center for this free event before June 11.
A special prize will be given to children who sign up before June 9, Sergeant Remington said.
For more information, please call the airman and family readiness center at 652-5321.