Ellsworth’s ALS team introduces spouse’s orientation program

Chief Master Sgt. Adam Vizi, the 28th Bomb Wing command chief, briefs a group of Airmen and their spouses on appropriate attire during the first spouse’s orientation program in the Samuel O. Turner building at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., Jan. 12, 2018. During the course, attendees learned about the appropriate attire for formal military events, the importance of creating networks and proper military etiquette. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Nicolas Z. Erwin)

Ellsworth’s ALS team introduces spouse’s orientation program

Heather Ryan, left, and her spouse Senior Airman Michael Ryan, a 28th Munitions Squadron armament systems crew member, mingle with other attendees during an Airman Leadership School graduation in the Dakota’s Club at Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., Feb. 2, 2018. Prior to the graduation, spouses and their Airmen had the opportunity to attend the first spouse’s orientation program, which provided attendees the chance to ask questions and receive clarification on issues such as appropriate attire and etiquette. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Thomas I. Karol)

Ellsworth’s ALS team introduces spouse’s orientation program

Published Feb. 15, 2018
By Senior Airman Denise M. Jenson
28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The Airman Leadership School on Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., introduced a new spouse’s orientation program at the Samuel O. Turner building Jan. 12, 2018. The purpose of the course is to inform spouses on the part they play in the success of an ALS student, as well as teach customs and courtesies, how to react in a formal setting, and how to dress at graduation.

“This program was designed to give spouses a first-hand look on what is and is not appropriate,” said Master Sgt. Kevin Davis, the ALS commandant assigned to the 28th Force Support Squadron. “If those kind of things aren’t communicated, how will they ever know?”

From the importance of networking to appropriate attire for graduations and formal events, Airmen and their spouses had the opportunity to ask questions and find support.

“I felt I was better prepared for the graduation after attending the orientation,” said Megan Flores, the spouse of Senior Airman Amel Garcia, a 28th Civil Engineer Squadron electrical systems journeyman. “It was so nice to get clarification on things like what to wear, and I was able to get certain questions answered.”

With these newly learned skills, spouses now have a better understanding of what their Airmen go through and how they can support them.

“The hope is this program not only teaches them the p’s and q’s or proper etiquette but also how they can help support their spouse during times of [professional military education] and other events,” Davis said.