Altus AFB  Military and Family Support Center

The leaders and service providers at Altus AFB are committed to helping families remain strong during deployments, extended temporary duty travel and remote tours. A readiness non-commissioned officer is assigned to the Airman and Family Readiness Center to coordinate with unit leadership and service agencies in order to work directly with troops and families during family separations. For additional information or questions, please contact the A&FRC at 580-481-6761 or DSN 312-866-6761.

Morale Call Program

Families may place three 30-minute calls to their loved ones from home using an automated call directory service.

Give Parents a Break

The AFAS recognizes that Air Force families are subject to unique stresses due to the nature of military life, including deployments, remote tours of duty and extended working hours. In an effort to help these families, the AFAS, in cooperation with the Air Force child care community, has agreed to provide funding for child care under our Give Parents a Break program. The purpose of this program is to offer eligible parents a few hours’ break from the stresses of parenting. Active-duty Air Force families may use this time to suit their personal needs. AFAS will pay the cost of having the base Child Development Center open once a month for families referred to the program. Families will not be charged for the care. The third Saturday of each month is set aside for this program. Stop by the A&FRC to get your certificate.

Hearts Apart Letter/Email

A deployment letter is sent out via mail or email.

Special Events

During holidays or other special times, events and activities are provided just for spouses and families. Look for arts, crafts, holiday parties and special activities for children.

Information and Referral

It's never possible to anticipate all the things that might occur during a separation. Call us if you have a concern, and we will help you find the available resources.

Tips for Spouses

• If you haven't been contacted by your spouse's unit at Altus AFB, contact the first sergeant and ask for a point of contact, or call the A&FRC if you need assistance.
• Participate in activities with other spouses. It helps to share with friends.
• Be vigilant about your security and ask friends and family to stay in touch. Don't let people into your home if you don't know them and refer any media requests for interviews to Public Affairs at 580-481-7700.
• If you're feeling depressed or sad, contact one of the service providers. If you're unsure whom to call, contact the A&FRC for information.
• Talk to children about their concerns, but also set aside time to do special activities. Keep their lives as normal as possible while Dad or Mom is away. 
• If you have a concern about something you've heard, call and confirm to make sure the information is accurate. 

Pre-Deployment Briefing

Pre-deployment briefings are held every other Monday in Building 369 in conjunction with Combat Skills Training. Topics discussed are expectations, support services offered and positive ways of dealing with stress. Resources are given out, and family information is obtained. This briefing is mandatory for active-duty members, and spouses are strongly encouraged to attend.  

Phone Home Program

Active-duty Air Force members of all ranks, single and married, who will be deployed for over 30 days are eligible to receive a prepaid phone card for use while deployed. Guard and reserve members who are activated under Title 10 orders for over 30 days are also eligible to participate in this program. This program makes it possible for the service member to phone home to family or friends during deployment and to make emergency contacts, when necessary, without added expense to the service member. In all cases, the member must receive a briefing prior to deployment, temporary duty travel or remote assignment.

Family Care Plans

A family care plan is a working plan that provides guidance for others as to the care of family members during a service member's absence. For example, it helps guardians and others with care for family members, financial and legal matters and medical needs. A family care plan is required if you are a single service member or part of a dual-service couple and you are responsible for the care of family members.

Reintegration Briefing

When you return, you are required to attend a reintegration briefing. These briefings are held Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and topics include expectations at home and work, how to reintegrate with family and friends, communication, coping skills and sources to help with the reintegration process. This briefing is mandatory for active-duty members, but spouses are invited to attend as well.