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Whether you are a civilian or an Airman a New Year means getting ready for new challenges, setbacks and surprises; just like the year that just ended, 2009 will certainly be a dynamic year as the U.S.continues operating in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Air Force Times recently published a list of some of the big changes that Airmen and their families can expect for 2009; some of them are great and some of them are not-so-great, which is about par for the course.Here are just a few:

1. Grown the Force: The Air Force will grow by 4,000 in 2009, with a target of adding 10,000 Airmen by 2010.Jobs that are expected to grow include positions in medical, security forces and UAV-related fields
2. Faster Promotions: A bigger Air Force means that Airmen will earn stripes faster in 2009 than in year"s past.To run a larger Air Force you need more NCOs and so expect enlisted Airmen and women at the top to go higher, faster
3. PT Changes: The current PT program is under scrutiny and the word is out that leadership will make changes in 2009.For all those Airmen out there not in love with PT, it"s unlikely things will get "easier"
4. Pay Raises May Dry Up: The U.S.economy is taking a beating and things are tough out there for civilians; this may force legislators to makes some cuts that affect the military; pay increases that top the private sector may be a thing of the past
5. New Uniform: Look for changes to the Airmen Battle Uniform blouse to begin this spring with changes to the PT uniform to come by the end of the fall
6. Cyber Airmen: Plans on how the Air Force Cyber Command will be organized are expected to be out this year
7. More UAV Orbits: Round-the-clock combat air patrols will increase over Iraq and Afghanistan in 2009

One thing that certainly won"t change for Airmen is that they will be able to bump up their educational credentials in 2009 by taking advantage of Air Force Tuition Assistance (TA), which provides active-duty Airmen with up to $4,500 a year in funds for classes at accredited vocational schools, community colleges and universities.

From a one course vocation program to a bachelor's degree, Air Force TA allows Airmen to pursue an education while they serve their country on active-duty.The funds renew each year and one of the most attractive aspects of the TA program is that the Air Force pays the schools directly, so Airmen pay nothing out-of-pocket for their schooling.

And the education money is not something that Airmen have to pay into or contribute to from the pay check each month - the funds are there because Airmen have earned them by their service to the United States people.

To learn more about TA funds, Airmen can contact their base ESO or contact a school they are interested in attending. Most school admission representatives will have had experience with TA enrollment funds and can help Airmen with any questions they may have.