The Impact of Commuter War on Military Personnel

Background: The U.S. armed forces recently experienced a reduction in forces along with an increase in operational tempo. The Air Force and other branches supporting its mission share this common military burden and also experience a unique stressor. The Air Force has developed a military force that can fight by night and return home by day. The relatively new phenomenon of “commuter war” was especially evident during Operation Allied Force over Kosovo. Methods: Military personnel (N = 540) participating in Operation Allied Force were administered a survey measuring morale, wellness behaviors, and work-family conflict. Results: The deployment had adverse effects on wellness behaviors of permanent party and temporary duty assignment populations. Additionally, levels of morale and motivation varied between the two groups. Permanent party personnel also reported increased rates of work-family conflict. Conclusions: Commuter war affects wellness behaviors, morale, and work-family conflicts of military personnel.