KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- For active-duty Airmen looking to transition into the Air Force Reserve while continuing to serve, two key programs provide a pathway: Palace Chase and Palace Front.
“Each offers unique opportunities tailored to different career aspirations and service needs providing an opportunity for active Airmen to transfer to the Air Force Reserve,” said Senior Master Sgt. Christopher Resio, 403rd Wing Recruiting flight chief.
The Palace Chase program allows active-duty Airmen to transfer into the Air Force Reserve before completing their active-duty service commitment and enabled eligible personnel to convert part of their remaining active-duty service commitment to the Reserve, providing an early release from active duty.
“To be eligible, Airmen typically must have completed at least half of their service commitment for first-term enlistees or two-thirds for career Airmen,” said Resio. “Approval is contingent on the needs of the Air Force and the Reserve, as well as the Airman’s career field, manning levels, and mission requirements.”
He also added that Palace Chase can provide a smoother transition from active duty to civilian life while maintaining military benefits, and the Air Force Reserve has several opportunities to serve in traditional reserve roles with units such as the 403rd Wing at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, or as an Individual Mobilization Augmentee, or IMA, which provides direct support to active-duty units. There are also full-time opportunities as a dual-status military technician or an Active Guard Reserve member.
Staff Sgt. Curtis Broxton transitioned from active duty where he served at Hill Air Force Bae, Utah, to the Air Force Reserve using Palace Chase and joined the 403rd Wing’s Equal Opportunity Office this year. He is originally from Louisiana, so Palace Chase offered him an opportunity to get close to home.
“It felt like a calling, and it sounds super spiritual, and it is a calling from God to go home to teach and coach,” said Broxton. “I still wanted to keep my foot in the door with the military and keep some of these benefits and work on my retirement, so I decided, hey, how can I do both? Palace Chase and the Air Force Reserve.”
Unlike Palace Chase, which allows Airmen to leave active duty early, Palace Front is designed for those who have completed their obligation and want to continue their military service without any break in status.
“The Palace Front program allows active-duty Airmen to transition directly into the Air Force Reserve the day after their active-duty service ends,” said Resio.
To qualify for Palace Front, Airmen must complete their active-duty service commitment, be in good standing with no disqualifying disciplinary actions, meet medical and fitness standards for Reserve service, and work with an In-Service Recruiter to coordinate their transition at least six months before separating.
“For Airmen who love serving in the Air Force but want more control over their civilian careers and personal lives, the Palace Chase and Palace Front programs provide the perfect balance,” said Resio. “It allows for continued service while pursuing new opportunities outside of active duty. Whether looking to maintain military ties, earn extra income, or work toward a Reserve retirement, these programs ensure Airmen can continue their mission without missing a step.”
For more information on Palace Chase and Palace Front, Airmen should contact their Talent Management Consultant or an In-Service Recruiter at their base to begin the transition process, which includes submitting an Air Force Form 1288, Application for Ready Reserve Assignment.
For Airmen who want to serve with the 403rd Wing at Keesler AFB, contact Resio at 228-365-4151. The incoming in-service recruiter, Master Sgt. Eric Tabor, arrives in May.