Each time we have returned from 90-day deployment we have averaged three divorces within the squadron. Simple stated, they mean too many trips to the desert, long hours, very little support, and lack of spare parts has decreased their quality of life. The increasing stress is just making everybody tired. The readiness of our Air Force is at a critical point. We need to continue to make improvements.
Solutions are difficult, especially with today's tight budget.
Down sizing has limited the capabilities of our service, yet our taskings have increased four-fold. If I had to rate our readiness on a scale from one to ten, I would give it say a six, but we need to continue to make positive strides in procurement of parts and retention of our experienced people. The readiness of our Air Force depends on the people that keep the aircraft flying and our Congress who funds us.