ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
The Airman and Family Readiness Center recently hosted "Military Saves Week," in an effort to encourage Team Andrews members to stay out of debt.
In recognition of Military Saves Week, Under Secretary of Defense, David Chu said, "We know that financial readiness affects military readiness by reducing stress that can distract from the mission. 'Military Saves' supports our troops and their families by involving all levels of leadership in an intentional, sustained effort to create a culture that encourages our members to save and build wealth and avoid the downward spiral of debt." Secretary Chu continued, "Changing our financial culture is a formidable task and requires everyone to take personal responsibility for adopting a 'Military Saver' lifestyle."
According to Nina Sargent, Andrews' Airman and Family Readiness Center financial readiness assistant, "financial difficulties of Airmen are a key roadblock to mission readiness. To combat this issue, in 2006 the Office of the Secretary of Defense created an annual campaign called 'Military Saves' that targets military bases nationwide." The base's financial readiness team provided a week's worth of activities that supported this year's theme, "Build Wealth, Not Debt." The week's activities included "Credit Card Cut Up Day" and "Brown Bag Day," in which Airmen were encouraged to bring their sack lunches to work-a habit which could save upwards of $30 per week according to Mrs. Sargent.
Airmen can learn about finances year-round thanks to monthly seminars at the Airmen and Family Readiness Center, said Mrs. Sargent.
She encourages Team Andrews members to attend "Money Mondays" seminars. Presented by Suzanne Curren of the Andrews Federal Credit Union, the classes feature money-related themed topics and are held the third Monday of each month. Upcoming Money Monday topics include college financing 101, investing basics and interpreting your credit report.
Call 301-981-7087 to register. Classes are free and refreshments are provided.
For more information, visit the Defense Department's "Military Saves" Web site at www.militarysaves.org.