Armed Forces Voter's Assistance Week kicks off at MHAFB

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Caitlin Guinazu
  • 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  Miles from home or half way across the world, the Mountain Home Air Force Base Voting Assistance Program proves distance doesn't matter when it's time to vote.

Kicking off the Armed Forces Voter's Assistance Week, beginning June 30 to July 7, 2014, the MHAFB VAP has set up voting assistance stations in different facilities throughout the base.

"Voter's assistance week is important because it allows people to know that "you" can have a say-so when it involves local, state and federal elections," said Tech. Sgt. Matthew Hawes, 366th Aerospace Medical Squadron bioenvironmental engineering NCO in charge.
The program provides assistance to anyone who needs information or help registering to vote, as well as those requesting an absentee ballot.

"We're here to help people, by assisting them in their preparations to vote," said Tech. Sgt. Harold West, 366th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron resource advisor and Voting Assistance officer. "This program assists not only military members but also dependents, retirees and civilians over the age of 18."

The Federal VAP continues to work hard, ensuring service members have a chance to have their voices heard by casting absentee ballots in state elections across the country.

"We all benefit from being involved in elections, as they can affect the decisions which are made in the best interests of the people," said Hawes. "The process is very easy and simple. It takes less than ten minutes to completely fill out the forms."

Not only is voting a benefit to the United States, but it has become a validation of citizenship and a practical exercise of patriotism.

"This year Voter's Assistance Week coincides with the 4th of July, where we celebrate our independence," said West. "In the upcoming local and state elections, I encourage everyone to learn about the topics being discussed and then get out and vote."

For more information on the VAP, visit www.fvap.gov or contact your unit voting representative.