In This Issue:
1. Apply for College Scholarships – Only 2 Weeks Left!
2. 2026 Charity Gala – A Night of Gratitude
3. Celebrating Military Children – Free Coloring Book
4. A Life of Service – Honoring General John Shaud
5. Staying Connected – AFAS Visits Maxwell & Minot
6. Did You Know – Child Care Grants Available for a PCS
7. Supporting Organization Spotlight – SAIC
8. Support AFAS Through a Beneficiary Designation
Apply for College Scholarships – Only 2 Weeks Left!
Only two weeks remain for spouses and children to apply for need-based scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year.
These Hap Arnold Education Grants are available to eligible spouses and dependent children of Airmen and Guardians pursuing a full-time undergraduate degree. The specific amount awarded is based on the student’s particular level of financial need.
Applications close April 30, 2026. Don’t miss this opportunity! Learn more and apply: afas.org/haparnoldgrant
2026 Charity Gala – A Night of Gratitude
This year’s annual Air & Space Forces Charity Gala was a powerful evening centered on one theme: gratitude.
We extend our sincere thanks to the Air & Space Forces Spouses Club of DC and the Gala Committee for organizing an incredible event that raised critical funds to support Airmen, Guardians, and their families.
We are also deeply grateful to Air & Space Forces leadership, our donors, corporate partners, sponsors, and staff whose continued support makes our mission possible. AFAS is stronger because of this incredible community. Thank you for standing with our Force.
Celebrating Military Children – Free Coloring Book
In recognition of the Month of the Military Child, AFAS partnered with the Air Force Sergeants Association (AFSA) to support their Coloring & Activity Book alongside other organizations.
This resource is designed to engage and celebrate military children while highlighting the strength and resilience of military families.
Access or download your copy here: https://www.hqafsa.org/militarykidsdraw.html
A Life of Service – Honoring General John Shaud
A wonderful leader has just departed our formation. Gen John Shaud (Dec 15, 1933 – March 13, 2026) was a remarkable Airman who served our nation over a lifetime, caring deeply for Airmen and their families. A warrior, servant, and leader of AFAS, his impact will not be forgotten.
“This wonderful leader has pulled back on the stick, departing the formation after a lifetime of faithful service. He will be deeply missed.” said Maj Gen (Ret) Ed Thomas, AFAS CEO.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the honor of serving alongside him.
Staying Connected – AFAS Visits Maxwell & Minot
To stay connected to Airmen, Guardians, and their families, AFAS regularly visits Air Force and Space Force bases. Our CEO, Maj Gen (Ret) Ed Thomas, recently had the pleasure of visiting two Air Force Bases:
- Maxwell AFB – During this visit, he met with Air University leadership and spoke with students at the First Sergeant Academy about financial readiness and the support we provide to Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Read more about the visit here: airuniverity.af.edu/News
- Minot AFB – Gen Thomas had a fantastic visit with leaders, Airmen, and families from the 5th Bomb Wing and 91st Missile Wing. With the largest population of first-term Airmen in the Air Force, they discussed how we can continue to strengthen the support we provide to the incredible people serving here.
These visits ensure AFAS remains connected and we can hear directly from commanders, leaders, first sergeants, chaplains, and Military & Family Readiness Centers so that we can continue to meet the evolving needs of our Force.
Did You Know – Child Care Grants Available for a PCS
During a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move, child care and associated costs can be a big challenge.
Through our Child Care for PCS program, eligible families can receive $200 per dependent child up to age 12 (maximum of $1,000 per family) to help cover child care costs during a PCS, retirement, or separation move.
Families can choose any provider that works best for them, and funds are sent directly via ACH or Zelle.
Learn more: afas.org/ccfpcs
Supporting Organization Spotlight – SAIC
This month, we recognize SAIC, whose purpose is to advance the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world.
Their continued support of our mission helps ensure we can provide meaningful assistance to the Airmen and Guardians who serve and protect our nation. We are also grateful for the leadership of SAIC’s CEO, Jim Reagan, who currently serves as President of the AFAS Board of Trustees.
Support AFAS Through a Beneficiary Designation
Planning for the future is an opportunity to support the causes that matter most to you. By naming AFAS as a beneficiary in your will, retirement account, investment and bank accounts, or life insurance policy, you can help ensure a legacy of support for Airmen, Guardians, and their families.
Your gift helps sustain our mission for generations to come.
Learn more: afas.giftlegacy.com