Center offers deployment support for military spouses and families

  • Published
  • By Dr. Jill Fuson
  • 48 Fighter Wing Public Affairs
RAF LAKENHEATH, England --  Separation due to deployments is one of the requisites of military life for military spouses and families.

From the pre-planning stages to homecoming, the Airmen and Family Readiness Center includes the spouse of the military member to assist in making deployments a positive experience.

Deployment is a very emotional time for the military family. Understanding the predictable cycle that couples and families go through during all phases of deployment is critical for military members and their families in effectively managing day-to-day routines.

The AFRC have family readiness coordinators who promote preparedness through family education and assistance programs such as pre-deployment, deployment and reunion seminars, spouse support groups, Give-Parents-a-Break and Car-Care-Because- We-Care programs.

"Being the lead wing on many deployments, our base is unique since we have so many deployed at one time," said Tech. Sgt. Merlin Choice, NCO of the AFRC. RAF Lakenheath has numerous programs and services available for families to experience a successful deployment.

Hearts Apart is a program designed for families of deployed military members which promotes support through networking. The program serves as a support group with frequent activities for spouses to join with others who are experiencing the same deployment separation providing mutual support, valuable information and friendly conversation.

The key spouses for the various squadrons are extremely helpful and very involved with the spouses of deployed service members, said Sergeant Choice. In conjunction with the AFRC, key spouses maintain contact with spouses for support and provide information of current activities and events. "I love being a key spouse," said Tracey Wright, key spouse for the Equipment Maintenance Squadron and President of the Enlisted and Civilian Spouses Club. "I know what it is like to be the spouse of a deployed service member and I enjoy interacting and providing assistance to these families."

One of the most recent events was the deployed spouse's picnic that was held on June 21 at Defender Park. An event such as this allows the deployed spouses to relax, fellowship with others, and provides opportunities to meet other spouses from other squadrons. When asked what Michelle Weyhrauch, spouse of Chief Master Sergeant Wayne Weyhrauch of the 48th Logistical Readiness Squadron, thought of the event, she said "Events such as this are awesome. There is a definite need for these type events to allow these families to interact and socialize while the children enjoy the day out."

For more information on the many programs available, stop by the AFRC, located in building 950. The AFRC offers an array of specialized programs and services aimed at improving the quality of life for military members and their families. For more information, call 226-3847.