Heart Link orients new spouses to military lifestyle

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kyla Gifford
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  The Air Force can seem overwhelming to spouses new to the military--especially when stationed overseas in a foreign country. There are resources available on RAF Mildenhall to help spouses who would like to learn more information about being in the military and the important role they play.

One resource available is Heart Link, a free orientation offered by the Airman and Family Readiness Center. The orientation takes place quarterly and is open, but not limited, to spouses married to service members for five years or less. Those who are interested are linked up with different base services to learn more about being in the military and the important role they play. The next Heart Link is scheduled for Dec. 6, 2013, at the base AFRC from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Child care is available; arrangements must be made in advance with the AFRC.

Heart Link helps bridge the gap to all the unknowns and navigates the Air Force system. The orientation is a day full of events, presentations from base agencies, games and prizes and also provides spouses with breakfast and lunch. This workshop is also a great opportunity for spouses to meet and connect with one another. "You are not going to know it all and that's okay because there are resources out there to help you and guide you through," said Christie Rodriguez, Community Readiness Specialist at the AFRC.

At the end of the course, U.S. Air Force Col. Kenneth T. Bibb Jr., 100th Air Refueling Wing commander, hosts a graduation to congratulate the spouses. They each receive a certificate and a coin for attending Heart Link, a physical reminder that they matter and are important to the mission.

"Spouses are invaluable to the Air Force. It is so important that they understand, not only the mission, but how crucial their supportive role is to our members down range," Rodriguez said. "Knowing all of the resources and helping agencies available to support our families builds a more resilient community and stronger families."