Yellow Ribbon eases military families' deployment issues Published Sept. 30, 2015 By Tech. Sgt. Billy Kidd 908th Airlift Wing MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- The Yellow Ribbon program is designed to help our deploying Reservists and their families prepare for departure and, once it's over, to help them make the transition back to normal, everyday living. The Yellow Ribbon is divided into two geographic groups, East and West. Events are held at resort hotels throughout the country, and airfare (or miles) and lodging are paid for/reimbursed. They are also usually located near child-friendly areas, which makes spending time together easy for families. If you live in the east, but want to go to a west event, a waiver may be granted if approved in advance. During the weekend event, there will be three 55-minute sessions for deployers and family on Saturday and two on Sunday. There will also be a variety of stations representing Finance, Personnel and Education, and other family-oriented programs. Along with deployers from other units and their families, commanding officers, command chiefs and other VIPs will be attending. Deployers and their families are allowed to go to one pre-departure event within 120 days of the deployment. When going to a post-deployment event, they are allowed to attend two events within 180 days of the return. An approved family member is defined as a spouse, children (in DEERS), parents, grandparents and blood siblings. If the family is unable to accompany the member, then one designated individual is allowed. The deployment must be at least 90 days. So if you are deploying, consider Yellow Ribbon so you and your family are prepared for a smooth departure and return.