Chapel hosts program designed to strengthen marriages

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Hrair H. Palyan
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  In an effort to strengthen the bond between married couples, the 28th Bomb Wing Chapel staff hosted a social event in the Higher Grounds facility Sept. 13.

Couples who attended the social - called "So You Thought Marriage Would Be Easy-- had the opportunity to mingle with other couples, learn about healthy family relationships and received information about the many support resources available at Ellsworth.

Capt. Henry Jenkins, 28th BW chaplain, said he worked with several different agencies on base to develop an ideal program for couples that allows them to interact with each other and enjoy themselves, while learning from some helpful specialists in the process - each keying in on important topics of discussion.

"We're highlighting resources from all over the base that can have a positive impact on Ellsworth families," said Jenkins. "One of the four pillars of Comprehensive Airman Fitness is spirituality, and that's what we're helping Airmen with - developing positive behaviors to help them with tough decisions."

Lee Sassy, 28th Medical Operations Squadron Mental Health Clinic Family Advocacy Outreach manager, and one of the speakers during the social, agreed that some of the most important challenges that newlyweds and younger couples face includes managing finances and establishing goals.

"Airmen can start by establishing trust with their spouses," Sassy said. "Talking with each other about financial goals and personal expectations can go a long way in developing trust and respecting boundaries."

Many of the couples at the social wanted to reach out and meet others in situations similar to their own.

Airman 1st Class Katie Wagner, 28th Force Support Squadron Military Personnel Section promotions technician, who attended the event with her husband, Justin, and said it was nice to do something different.

"We both learned a lot and had a good time," said Wagner. "I know a lot of Airmen overlook these events thinking they aren't useful, but I really recommend they come out, enjoy themselves and enrich their marriage."

For more information or to sign up for the next social, contact the 28th BW chaplain office at (605) 385-1598.