Whiteman honors military spouses, their contributions

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. - Self defense instructor Billy Matheny, 509th Security Forces Squadron, defends against an "assailant" during a self defense class May 8. the self defense class was part of Spouses' Week, during which military spouses were the focus of a week's worth of activiites. (U.S. Air Force photo.Staff Sgt. Jason Barebo)

Whiteman honors military spouses, their contributions

Published May 8, 2008
By Senior Airman Dilia Ayala
509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- They are often referred to as "my other half," "honey," and "mom" or "dad." Regardless of what name they go by, military husbands and wives have been serving their country faithfully alongside those who wear the uniform every day for decades.

In honor of these heroes on the homefront, military installations worldwide celebrate Military Spouse's Day each May.

Military Spouse Day was first celebrated in 1984 when then-President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the observance to honor the contributions of military spouses.

As part of this annual observance, the Whiteman Air Force Base Airman and Family Readiness Center provided a week-long series of events for base military spouses.

"The husbands and wives of our servicemembers make significant sacrifices for freedom's cause every day, and they are a vital part of how successful our military members are in completing the mission," said Glenda Alexander, A&FRC Community Readiness Consultant. "During our Military Spouse's Week, we honor the husbands and wives of those who wear the uniform, recognizing their selfless and faithful service."

Spouses often times endure long periods of separation and frequent moving, Ms. Alexander said. They repeatedly set aside their own personal and professional goals for the benefit of their family and the Nation. Despite the challenges military spouses may face, they maintain everyday life for their families, serving as the backbone of their families here at home as their spouses serve around the globe.

In addition to celebrating military spouses and their contributions with this annual observance, the A&FRC offers a number of activities and programs for military members and their spouses throughout the year.

"Spouses may volunteer at a variety of organizations on base by visiting the Airman & Family Readiness Center and becoming a base volunteer," said Ms. Alexander. "Most units on base have a Key Spouse who works with spouses and families in the unit and acts as a liaison between unit leadership and families."

"Spouses are highly encouraged to be active in the military members unit by attending functions and activities as they are held," she continued. "In addition, there are two spouse clubs at Whiteman - the Whiteman Enlisted Spouses' Club and the Whiteman Officer's Spouses' Club, both of which seek to solicit membership. Each organization holds social and philanthropic activities throughout the year."