Dedicated Financial Counselor Available to Airmen, Families, Units

COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss., Aug. 11 -- The U.S. Air Force Columbus Air Force Base (14th Flying Training Wing) issued the following news:

By Airman 1st Class Keith Holcomb

14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

Airmen earn a paycheck about every two weeks for their military service, and just like anyone else, they can fall victim to bad budgeting and financial habits.

In order to help Airmen and their families avoid financial trouble, the Columbus Air Force Base Airman & Family Readiness Center has several employees who are capable of providing professional financial guidance. However, as of this year, they also have one dedicated financial consultant to assist Airmen and their families.

Michelle Bruce, the A&FRC Personal Finance Counselor, is available for financial counseling from 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.

"I can help active-duty military on Columbus AFB with a lot of financial issues; the thing that I like the best is credit management," Bruce said. "I can also help with debt and money management; I can help with [Blended Retirement System] and [Thrift Savings Plan explanations]."

Her role is to support Airmen on Columbus AFB with almost any financial aid guidance they are seeking.

"I'm here to help with almost anything regarding their finances, and can even help with reading leave and earning statements," Bruce said.

The job position is a contracted spot and is supported by Airmen taking advantage of this resource.

"The more contacts I get, the more long-term conversations we get, the longer the contract can be extended," Bruce said. "I'm here to show that Airmen here need the help and can get back on track financially, or in some cases get started in the right direction."

A common misconception is that she can help with investing. Although she can't advise in investing opportunities, she can explain what investing is.

"Michelle is not an investment adviser, she is only there to help with basically how to manage your money and can be a great resource for the Airmen here," said Mark Horning, Columbus A&FRC Director.