This week, several Airmen around the base (no Engineer Airmen) received short notice out-of-cycle taskings for extended deployments. These Airmen got 5 days notice for a 7 1/2 month deployment. Some were ready to go, some weren't, and being ready meant the difference between spending time with family and friends or rushing around at the last minute to get everything done.
But just what is being "ready"?
Are your wills and powers of attorney updated? Can your spouse register your vehicle when you're away? How 'bout those bank accounts...have you made arrangements to pay your bills while you're away?
What about your gear? Do you have enough personal toiletries to last for 30 days? Ziplock baggies? Baby wipes? How 'bout batteries for that really cool flashlight you bought at Clothing Sales last month (you know the one...it's still in the plastic in your drawer...). Do you have a phone card? Do you have all your PT gear? (No civilian clothes at those deployed locations...)
The list is long, but you get the idea.
The point is to think to yourself, "What if I got orders to deploy in 3 days...could I do it?" Then go and take care of those things you have control over as soon as possible.
Being ready is not just something we do for the Air Force...it's something we do for ourselves as well.
