They must be released from active duty one year following the end of the recall period, which would be Sept. 30, 2003. The recall is just one of the tools being used to help mitigate the headquarters rated staff position shortfalls experienced above the wing level. With the Air Force s goal of keeping the wings manned at 100 percent, the current pilot shortage means the rated staff positions are paying the price. It is difficult for them to develop and implement rated policy right now, and to manage programs. This program will allow them to recapture valuable rated expertise.
Volunteers can apply for a specific location or opt for worldwide availability.
Additionally, they may be eligible for aviation continuation pay and the time served on active duty may potentially increase their retired pay multiplier when they return to retired status. They will not be eligible for promotion while recalled, and high year of tenure restrictions are also being waived for those eligible and interested in applying. An aircrew from the 551st Special Operations Squadron and pararescuemen from Det. 1, 342nd Training Squadron here helped locate two missing skiers Dec. 19 near the Santa Fe Ski Area. The skiers had been missing overnight and temperatures fell below zero. A TH-53A Pave Low helicopter carrying six aircrew members and two pararescuemen landed in the ski area s parking lot so crew members could meet with ground search and rescue personnel.