Recruiting and retention efforts pay off

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Quinton Young
  • 114th Fighter Wing
SIOUIX FALLS, S.D. --  Approximately one year ago the 114th Fighter Wing was overmanned at 102 percent, but with the addition of more aircraft the unit found itself down to 92 percent manning. 

Although 92 percent is an impressive number the recruiters of the 114th Fighter Wing strive to maintain 100 percent or better at all times. 

Within one year our recruiters have put forth an amazing effort and brought the unit back up to 99.5 percent with only 5 positions remaining to be filled. The main goal of the recruiters now is awareness. They will be concentrating on during events such as the Air Show, Career Days and multiple school visits. 

"We find that when we visit people about the Guard it is usually the Army NG that they are familiar with, and they didn't even know the Air Guard was there," said Tech. Sgt. Jake Lackas, 114th FW recruiter. "So awareness is our main goal right now." 

Along with recruiting, retention is a very important section. There are several incentives and options for current members to make their decision to stay with the unit. The biggest news in the retention world right now is the Post-9/11 GI Bill. 

"One of the main changes with the Post-9/11 GI Bill is that the unit member will have the option to transfer their GI Bill benefits to a spouse and/or children," said Master Sgt. Becky Langloss of the 114th Retention Office. More information on this program will be in the June Thunderbumper 

With an excellent recruiting and retention effort the 114th Fighter Wing is as strong as ever and ready to face any and all challenges laid before it. 

More information on the Post 9/11 GI Bill can be found by visiting www.gibill.va.gov or contacting Master Sgt. Becky Langloss.