While life for a deployed airman can be difficult at times, it can be harder on his or her family back at home.

But a new program designed by Air Force Services Agency officials as part of the Year of the Air Force Family campaign is designed to help ease some of the stress families encounter during a deployment.

"An airman's deployment is really a family's deployment. Airmen expect us to provide a stable environment for them and their families. And, doing so is part of our heritage and culture," Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley said recently during his speech to the Air Force Sergeants Association.

Family members of deployed spouses at McChord are eligible through July 31 to receive dePLAYment tags, which entitle them to certain benefits while an airman is deployed, said Kelly Wetzel, 62nd Force Support Squadron marketing manager.

Spouses must bring a copy of the deployment orders to the McChord community center to receive the tags, which look like dog tags and can be placed on a key ring. There is also a pre-printed numbered code on the back of the dog tag, which serves as a unique identifier for each family member.

"Once families pick up their tags, the best thing to do is visit www.myairforcelife.com and find out more about what they can do," Wetzel said.

The Web site contains a detailed calendar for each base with a list of free or reduced price activities those with the dePLAYment tags can take advantage of. 

The dePLAYment tags benefits at McChord include:

• One free framing class, half off a woodworking class, one free custom frame fitting and one free laser-engraved plaque (per family) at the Arts and Crafts Center

• One free family bowling night per quarter (per family), which includes three games of bowling and shoe rentals at Sounders Lanes

• One free adult or child instructional class at Whispering Firs Golf Course

• Free transportation for one local trip through Adventures Unlimited

• A free youth instructional class and youth sports registration (per child) at the Youth Center

The Web site also features other contests and instant giveaways, as well as a list of frequently asked questions and eligibility requirements surrounding the program.