MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Returning from deployment, Airmen meet at the Airman and Family Readiness center for one of the final steps on their post-deployment checklist.
Trying to stay awake from a drastic time change, Airmen blink repeatedly and shake their heads to wake themselves up for the upcoming briefing.
Master Sgt. Eric Alvarez, NCO in charge of Airman and Family Readiness, briefs countless Airmen every month to ensure they know the resources available for them at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota.
After welcoming Airmen back home, Alvarez presents a relaxed environment asking Airmen about their time overseas before beginning the post-deployment brief.
“Returning home from deployment is not a change of command, where you are in your front yard being presented a flag by your wife or children, it’s a process,” said Alvarez.
In a room of 22 Airmen, almost half had just recently returned from their first deployment.
“For those of you returning from your first deployment and are unaware, we are here to inform you of the resources available to you and your family,” said Alvarez.
Many organizations on base attended this routine briefing to relay information about their services.
Airman 1st Class Sidney Shaw, a mental health technician assigned to the 5th Medical Operations Squadron, explained to Airmen that it is important for Airmen to seek positive alternatives for stress relief, like improving fitness, instead of turning to alcohol or drugs.
“It is very important that we take care of ourselves and other Airmen in our squadrons,” she said.
Shaw suggested Airmen focus on adapting their sleep schedule.
“Adapting proper sleep hygiene is important,” she said. “A great routine is to ensure you do the same things every night before you lay down in bed. It prepares your body for sleep quicker than as if you were to just do random things before bed.”
Chaplains, Public Health, Mental Health and the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator all proposed their resources to the Airmen.
“You name it, we got it,” said Alvarez. “And if we do not have the proper resources, we will point you in the right direction.”
Whether it’s your first deployment, or your sixth deployment, the Airman and Family Readiness center is here to ensure your homecoming is an easy and enjoyable progression.