4/20/2010 - ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) -- As Airmen from throughout the Air Force gathered here April 20 through 22 for the 2010 Caring for People Forum, the chief of staff of the Air Force underscored the importance of their participation.

Approximately 250 active-duty, Guard and Reserve Airmen and civilians gathered for the second annual forum to address areas of concern for Airmen.

Topics to be addressed include deployments, schools, housing, health and wellness and spouse communication as well as the unique challenges for families with special needs, single Airmen and Guard and Reserve members.

"Make no mistake, your work is absolutely vital and it is essential to the success of our Air Force as a national security institution and as a diverse family, a very diverse family, in common cause," said Gen. Norton Schwartz, the Air Force chief of staff.