Sponsoring Airmen makes big difference for them Published Sept. 4, 2014 By Senior Airman Marcy Copeland 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- A permanent change of station can be overwhelming for the Airman coming from technical training school or for the family who feels as though they have moved a thousand times, but having a sponsor can make all the difference when arriving at a new station. A sponsor is the first person who will meet the Airman and can put him on the right path by showing him around base, getting him settled into the dorms or helping him to find a house. A sponsor opens the way to meeting co-workers and learning the details of their career and what support they provide the base. "A sponsor briefs you on everything that you are coming into," said Senior Airman Ashley Suarez, 56th Comptroller Squadron budget analyst. "They inform you of physical training schedules, hours of operations and job duties. They take you around base and to your appointments, introduce you to your leadership and try to ensure a smooth transition." For families moving to a new base, a sponsor can help locate a house or help with obtaining base housing. They can provide information for spouses such where the commissary, childcare and school are within the local area. A sponsor can also provide information for families with special needs and put them in touch with a family advocate to help with those arrangements. "I thought it was a good way to help new Airmen," said Airman 1st Class Kyle Reaves, 56th CPTS customer support technician. "Whether it's a brand new pipeline Airman or an NCO coming from another base, moving to a new base can be nerve racking and sponsoring helps to eleviate some of the stress." Becoming a sponsor requires training to fully understand the role and responsibilities that comes with being a sponsor. Training is available online.