Heartlink connects spouses with AF life

  • Published
  • By Airman Shen-Chia Chu
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Several 436th Airlift Wing military spouses attended Heartlink briefings Tuesday at Chapel 2.

"This spouse orientation program educates military spouses about Tricare, Protocol, Legal, Airman and Family Readiness Center and finance," said Sue Holliday, A&FRC community readiness consultant. "It's like a 101 course about the Air Force and what the military is all about."

The briefing began with a warm welcome and opening speech from the wing commander.
"We want to take care of your families," said Col. Steven Harrison, 436th Airlift Wing commander. "Family members work hard at home and work hard abroad. We want to make sure when your spouses are ready to deploy, they can focus on their job."

Deployed Airmen can focus on their jobs much easier when they know that their families at home are taken care of.

The seminar is not limited only to spouses of the military members, but it is encouraged that couples come together for this learning experience.

"I feel spouses should bring their significant other," said Master Sgt. Sean Kelly, A&FRC superintendent. "It's a great program to learn information and helps couples make an easier transition to the military life."

When servicemembers deploy it's never easy for the family members, but knowing the kinds of services available to them on base helps them feel comfortable.

"We're building mutual support," said Colonel Harrison. "You're my neighbor and my friend so when you need help I'm there, and when I need help, I'm not afraid to ask because that's what a wingman does."

Spouses need to know what to do and where they can go to get help, said Colonel Harrison.

It's tough when spouses are alone and have to take care of everything on their own, but Heartlink can help. The briefings provide useful information about agencies, along with a welcoming canvas bag of handy phone numbers, calendars and other useful information. Additionally, information is offered about: spouses clubs, colleges, services organizations such as Leisure Travel and the Child Development Center, Base Exchange, Commissary and banks.

"We build upon the strength we already have," said Colonel Harrison. "We're just very lucky because we get outstanding people and it makes me pretty proud to be a part of this. Thank you for all the work that you do in supporting our service."