Program helps wounded warrior get hired Published April 21, 2011 By Tammy Cournoyer Air Force Wounded Warrior Program RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Air Force's Wounded Warrior Employment Program has a special tool in its employment toolbox to assist combat-related ill/injured Airmen secure civil service jobs. It has helped newly wounded warriors transition into the Air Force's civilian work force since 2006. The employment program affects wounded warriors with a 30 percent or higher combat-related disability rating. It provides an avenue to apply for federal civilian jobs and allows them greater flexibility with their employment opportunities. It has assisted more than 100 wounded warriors. "When a locally funded position isn't available for a wounded warrior at an Air Force base, a central salary funded position can be established for 18 months," said Scott Hand, a benefits and entitlements specialist with the Air Force Personnel Center's AFW2 Program here. "Installation officials work toward locating a locally funded position for permanent employment." Waivers to the 18-month placement can be requested on a case-by-case basis so an AFW2 warrior can continue working until local officials are able to locate a locally funded position. Civilian personnel officials at AFPC oversee this special employment program. They work closely with the AFW2 staff to ensure the Airmen who couldn't remain on active duty still have a chance to serve. "One of the main concerns our wounded warriors have has to do with finances. 'How am I going to provide for myself and my family?'" explained Mr. Hand. "This program gives them a chance to make a living doing what they do best - serving their country." Both the wounded warriors and the Air Force gain from the program. "Not only does this program give the wounded warriors the employment they need once they are no longer on active duty, the Air Force benefits by getting skilled and experienced civilian employees for years to come," said Liz Kelly, who works with the special employment program. Michael Young of the Logistics Readiness Division at Tyndall AFB, Fla., wasn't apprehensive about hiring a wounded warrior and is very happy with the work of Gunar Moschner, a former senior airman who was injured in Qatar. Already knowing the Air Force and how it operates "is a plus," Mr. Young said. The Central Salary Account is programmed for 30 fulltime employees annually; 20 AFW2s are currently in the process of being placed into a CSA or permanently funded Air Force civil service positions. For more information on the AFW2 Employment Program, contact the AFW2 Program at 1-800-581-9437 or visit the Air Force Civilian Service website at http://www.afciviliancareers.com/index.php.