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RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS) Released 21 April 1997 -- Members of the Delayed Entry Program are now eligible to shop at base exchanges and take advantage of certain other Services' activities.

The policy change, which was recently announced by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense, was implemented because DEP personnel are considered members of the Armed Services Ready Reserve. As members of the ready reserve, DEP members and their family members are authorized to take advantage of some of the same services enjoyed by active duty members.

Aside from exchanges, under the new policy, DEP airmen will be able to use such facilities as golf courses and clubs during events which do not require membership. Privileges do not include club membership, check-cashing, or the purchase of tobacco and alcohol.

Family members are included but the DEP member must sign-in and accompany family members to Services' and exchange facilities. Only the DEP member is authorized to purchase products and services. While DEP members may use the base exchange and other support facilities, they are not entitled to commissary priviledges.

Many recruiters are using this program in conjunction with DEP commander's calls for the purpose of strengthening the commitment of these members, Recruiting Service officials said.

Under the DEP, men and women who have joined the Armed Forces wait varying periods of time to enter active duty after signing their DD Form 4, the Enlistment/Re-enlistment document. Delays may last from several weeks to a year.

According to Lt. Col. Douglas Mattoon, chief, AFRS Real Estate and Logistics branch, since DEP personnel are awaiting initial issue of an identification card in basic training, they will use their DD Form 4, the Enlistment/Re-enlistment document, with supporting photo identification to obtain access to the Services' facilities. A driver's license or student photo ID will be acceptable.

"Since they are brand new members of the ready reserve and representatives of the military, it is the recruiters' responsibility to advise DEP members of local base regulations, speed limits and standards of conduct expected of all military members while taking advantage of these privileges," Mattoon said. "Members must also be briefed on the penalties for misuse of the facilities." (Courtesy of AETC News Service)

Above Information Courtesy of Air Force News Service