DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Airmen considering a transition from active-duty service have an option to continue serving while pursuing opportunities outside the military through the Palace Chase program.
Palace Chase allows eligible Airmen to request early release from active duty and transfer to the Air Force Reserve, where they serve in a part-time capacity, which often involves serving one weekend a month and two weeks a year, while maintaining their connection to the Air Force.
“The Palace Chase program gives Airmen the opportunity to leave active duty early and experience part-time service in the Air Force Reserve,” said Master Sgt. Joshua Cobb, U.S. Air Force Reserve in-service recruiter at Dyess.
The voluntary program provides flexibility for Airmen seeking to pursue civilian careers, education or family commitments while continuing military service.
To be eligible, enlisted Airmen must complete at least half of their initial enlistment, while officers must complete at least two-thirds of their service commitment. Once approved, participants incur a Reserve service obligation based on their remaining active-duty time. Enlisted members typically serve two months in the Reserve for every one month remaining on active duty, while officers generally serve a three-to-one commitment.
For Tech. Sgt. Dawn Esposito, 317th Maintenance Squadron fuel systems craftsman, the Palace Chase program represents a potential path to better balance her military service and family priorities.
“There have been times during our active-duty careers where we’ve wondered what are we going to do next and how are we going to manage everything,” Esposito said.
Dawn and her husband, Tech. Sgt. Gary Esposito, 7th MXS aircraft fuel systems section chief, are currently exploring the Palace Chase program as they consider their next steps while serving on active duty and raising a young family.
“I wanted the opportunity for a little more stability while still working in aircraft maintenance, but also having more time for my family,” Gary said.
While Palace Chase offers increased flexibility, it also requires careful planning. Airmen transitioning from active duty should prepare for changes in pay, benefits and employment structure.
“When you leave active duty, you lose that consistent paycheck and full-time benefits,” Cobb said. “Airmen need to have a plan in place before making that transition.”
Part of that planning includes factoring in valuable retained benefits, such as affordable health coverage through Tricare Reserve Select, ongoing education opportunities and continued contributions toward a military retirement.
For Airmen who plan accordingly, the program provides a pathway for them to continue serving while adapting their careers to meet personal and professional goals.
For more information about the Palace Chase program, visit myFSS and search “Palace Chase,” refer to DAFI 36-3211, or contact your local in-service recruiter to begin the pre-screening process.