PLAYpass saves money for Airmen, families

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Eboni Reams
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH --  The RAF Lakenheath Airman and Family Readiness Center along with others bases across the Air Force are distributing PLAYpass discount cards for family members of recently deployed personnel, as well as recently deployed single Airmen.

Currently, more than 150 recently deployed Liberty Warriors are taking advantage of the PLAYpass.

The PLAYpass has a value of up to $500 and can be used for 90 days from the date of issue. The pass is available until Dec. 31, 2011 and is used for discounts available at many Force Support programs, such as the Youth and Child Development Centers and Outdoor Recreation. Although the pass has to be issued at your home station, it can be used at any Air Force base.

"Last year was confusing for PLAYpass users who lived between RAFs Lakenheath and Mildenhall because they could only use their card on their home station" said Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Aumiller, 48th Force Support Squadron AFRC NCO in-charge. "This year, they can use their card on both bases as well as stateside if they go home for the summer."

Another change to the card is bases are not divided into different fund categories by deployment rates. All bases pull from the same funds to be equally distributed.

"The only limit to the PLAYpass this year is the 90 days", said Jeff Halstead, AFRC chief. "It's a huge improvement to have a pot that all bases are funded from,"

Single Airmen returning from deployment can also use the PLAYpass.

"I'm happy to see the single Airmen included this year." said Sergeant Aumiller.

To receive the PLAYpass recently deployed members and families must bring a copy of their deployment orders to the AFRC. The passes are also available at deployed family dinners.

The next dinner will be held June 15, 2011 at the Base Chapel Annex.

"All deployed families are encouraged to come and enjoy a Mexican Fiesta style dinner and sign up for a PLAYpass," said Sergeant Aumiller.

The PLAYpass logo can be seen around base to show members where it can be used.

"In the free bi-weekly At Ease magazine, force support centers and activities are tagged with the PLAYpass logo where the pass can be used," said Mr. Halstead.

For more info, call the AFRC at 226-3847 or visit myairforcelife.com.