HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Base officials are observing Armed Forces Voting Week here June 28 through July 2.
The Federal Voting Assistance Program, facilitated here by the Airman and Family Readiness Center, is the official resource for service members and their families wanting to vote in local elections or by absentee ballot from wherever they are serving.
“This week shines a light on the importance of voting and having your voice be heard,” said Tracey Hall, Hanscom’s voting program manager.
Hall said she understands that, as service members and their families change duty stations, registering to vote is often an overlooked to-do.
“We have the specific forms, information and guides for every state, county and commonwealth to make registering to vote as simple as possible,” said Hall.
Personnel can also visit www.FVAP.gov for a list of state-specific voting guidelines, election dates and deadlines, as well as ballot status updates.
Voting program managers say the most efficient way to keep voting information current is to fill out a federal post card application annually, with every change of address, or at least 90 days before an election.
“That way, the election office knows you want to register and how to reach you, and most importantly, where to send your ballot,” said Hall.
Representatives from the A&FRC Voting Program will be available at the Base Exchange June 30 from 10 a.m. to noon to assist personnel in registering to vote and updating absentee information.