Ellsworth Spouse Day

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rebecca Imwalle
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  As one small way to thank Ellsworth spouses for their hard work, commitment and unwavering dedication, the base hosted Spouse Appreciation Day May 8.

The event, held the Friday before Mother's Day each year, provided Ellsworth Airmen with an opportunity to share their jobs with some of the most important people in their lives-- their spouses. 

Lori Vega, 28th Force Support Squadron deputy commander, explained that the goal of Spouse Appreciation Day is to recognize the significant contributions as well as the support and sacrifices of spouses of active duty members.

"It is important to show appreciation to the spouses who handle the moves and separations and keep the home fires burning," Vega explained. "So often we focus on the military member and we don't always pause to acknowledge that, without strong military spouses, that member could not perform their duties as effectively." 

The day featured a variety of displays and events, and began at the Pride Hangar with opening remarks from Col. Ty Neuman, 28th Bomb Wing vice commander.

"All too often military members do all the training and receive the recognition for being a military member," Neuman said. "We don't get enough chances to train our spouses and show them what we do each day."

Neuman noted that military spouses provide so much support and accept many responsibilities, adding that even though they did not volunteer for it, they in turn are serving their country.

"Today is just a small opportunity for the base community to recognize those spouses for their role in the defense of our nation and appreciate the work they do," Neuman added.

Following the opening remarks, various facilities on Ellsworth provided displays for spouses to enjoy, including robots from the 28th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordinance disposal team, a B-1 bomber static with a munitions display and 28th Security Forces Squadron military working dog demonstrations. Many other military vehicles and demonstrations were provided to give spouses a better understanding of daily operations.

Along with the displays at the Pride Hangar, spouses had the chance to tour the 28th CES fire house, the 28th SFS shoot house and the 28th Logistics Readiness Squadron deployment center.

Base personnel ensured the child-friendly event allowed families to come out and enjoy the day by providing many opportunities to socialize at luncheons around base, experience what their spouses do each day at work, and learn more about the Air Force and Ellsworth's missions.

"Today is for the spouses," Neuman said. "We thank you all so much for what you do."