Heartlink orientation provides spouses information, fellowship Published June 20, 2012 By Airman Ashley J. Cass 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The Airman and Family Readiness Center held a Heartlink orientation June 18 in the AFRC meeting room in the Rushmore Center. The meeting hosted fourteen spouses of Airmen from various squadrons, who were provided with information about Ellsworth's mission, resiliency resources, base medical services, military protocol and attractions throughout the local area. Laurie Adkins, an AFRC community readiness technician, said the quarterly orientation features a tour of a B-1 and an agency fair at its conclusion. "Heartlink is a program intended to assist spouses who are new to the Air Force or to Ellsworth," Adkins said. "It's a way for them to become familiar with the support network." Heather Hale, a Child Development Center worker, said this was the first Heartlink meeting she has attended. "A lot of people who go probably don't know what's available to them," said Hale. "It was very informative." Adkins said that four experienced spouses were included in the meeting to help answer questions and give advice. "We always have mentoring spouses," Adkins said. Hale explained that Ellsworth is the first base to which she has accompanied her husband, and that many of the other spouses who participate in the meetings are most likely in the same situation. "It's a great networking opportunity," Hale said. Adkins said that Ellsworth has been holding Heartlink meetings for years, and that the response from spouses who have participated is very positive. "They enjoy the fact that they are able to meet and network with other spouses," Adkins said. "In a way, they're all in the same boat." The next Heartlink orientation is scheduled for September 17. For more information, call the AFRC at (605) 385-4663.