Newcomers invited to learn about base and local area

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Foster
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Newcomers to the base who would like to learn about the Hanscom area will have several opportunities to do so in the coming weeks. The Airman and Family Readiness Center will host three classes for new arrivals.

The Installation Commander's Welcome takes place Aug. 20 starting at 8 a.m. For family members not able to attend the commander's welcome, a Family Welcome is available on Aug. 21 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. A Newcomers Public Transportation and City Orientation outing happens on Aug. 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"The summer months are typically a time of high turnover in the military," said Terri O'Keefe, community readiness consultant at the A&FRC. "Many families are moving due to new assignments. By August, a large number of them are getting settled and are ready to explore their new communities. Classes designed to help newcomers quickly become acclimated and familiar with local customs and opportunities will shorten the stressful settling in time and maximize their enjoyment of the new area. Another benefit is the opportunity to meet people and make new friends who may be here throughout the assignment."

The Installation Commander's Welcome is mandatory for newly arrived Air Force military and DoD civilian personnel, however, spouses and personnel from other military branches working or living on Hanscom may also attend. The welcome features base and community information, mandatory safety and security briefings, refreshments and an information fair.

During the information fair, attendees can speak with representatives from many organizations such as the Hanscom Spouses Club, Hanscom commuter program, the education center and Military OneSource. In addition, attendees can receive tips on living and working in New England. The commander's welcome takes place in the Conference Center, Building 1106.

"It's also important to remember that spouses, as well as any Army, Navy, Marine Corps or Coast Guard members and their families may attend Hanscom's new arrival classes," said O'Keefe. "Our sister services have a strong presence on Hanscom and we want to make sure they are welcomed, aware and informed."

For military spouses with small children who are not able to attend the Installation Commander's Welcome, the Family Welcome is another option. The Family Welcome takes place in an informal setting at the Airman and Family Readiness Center Loan Locker, Building 1216, and provides base and community information in a fun and family-friendly way.

Attendees will receive money-saving tips and shopping information while learning about local events and attractions, safety, security, volunteering, employment and more. Registration is required for the welcome and those interested may call 781-225-2765 or email 66.fss.fsfr.cmb@hanscom.af.mil to sign up.

Another unique opportunity for newcomers is the Public Transportation and City Orientation, or Ride the T. The orientation helps those new to the New England area learn how to navigate the Boston public transportation system and receive tips on history, events, attractions and discounts.

Military members are not required to take leave to attend the outing. The cost is $4 for subway fares in addition to the cost of lunch downtown. To register, call 781-225-2765 or email 66.fss.fsfr.cmb@hanscom.af.mil.

"Moving to a large, unfamiliar metro area and navigating the local public transportation can be challenging," O'Keefe said. "By offering this option, we hope to introduce newcomers to the diverse cultural, historical and recreational opportunities, share money and time-saving tips, and build their enthusiasm to return for more adventures while they are stationed here."

The Airman and Family Readiness Center offers many seminars, sessions and services for military and DoD civilian families at Hanscom. To learn more about these opportunities, visit www.hanscomservices.com/AirmanAndFamilyReadinessCenter.asp or call 781-225-2765.