Participants gather at ARPC for annual muster

Published June 25, 2010
By Mike Molina
Air Reserve Personnel Center Public Affairs

DENVER, Colo. -- More than 170 men and women gathered at the Air Reserve Personnel Center here as part of the Individual Ready Reserve muster program June 18.

The program is mandated by law and requires the Air Force to connect with Airmen who have served and still have a military service obligation but are no longer participating.

Air Force Reserve recruiters are also on hand to answer questions from anyone interested in coming back into the Air Force.

"We're bringing you in to get you updated and we'd love to have you back," said Brig. Gen. Kevin Pottinger, ARPC commander, as he welcomed the group. "With your training, we figure if we get you folks back in, it's a win-win situation."

Muster participants get their records updated, receive a basic medical screening and hear about the benefits they are still eligible for.

"I wasn't aware of the commissary benefits or that I could get an ID card," said Kenneth Malone, who served six years on active duty before he left the Air Force and transitioned to the IRR.

Lindsey Holmes said she was interested in hearing about the benefits and her service options.

She served five years on active duty as an astronautical engineering officer. She now works part-time as an engineer and spends time with her children.

"I was curious as to what kinds of benefits are available," Mrs. Holmes said. "And I've thought about going Reserve, but didn't want to go full-time again."

Marcus Holcomb of Northglenn said the muster provided him with some valuable information about his reenlistment options.

The former senior airman served four years on active duty before transferring to the Reserve.

"I'm working on reenlisting onto active duty," Mr. Holcomb said. "This was good information, especially the benefits and opportunities available if we want to get back in."

The muster at ARPC will be the only one here this year, but ARPC officials also manage and will assist with 20 musters at Air Force bases nationwide in 2010.