Ellsworth recognizes the force behind the Force

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rebecca Imwalle
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. - --  Today's Air Force relies on its military spouses to keep the home fires burning while their Airmen are away, keeping our Air Force mission ready.

Earlier this month, Ellsworth celebrated nationally recognized Military Spouse Appreciation Day with its own "Better Halves" event May 9 as a way to recognize the importance and strength of military spouses. This day was first declared in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan and by Presidential Proclamation each year following.

"Every Friday before Mother's Day is designated spouses day in the military," said Col. Kevin Kennedy, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "A lot goes into being a military spouse, so I thank all of you for what you've done."

As a part of the day's events, Ellsworth offered several opportunities to learn more about facilities on base such as the Health and Wellness Center and the chapel. At the Pride Hangar, there was Military Working Dog demonstrations were given, and Airmen were available to give tours of the B-1 Bomber, fire trucks, and many other vehicles from various squadrons on base.

Sai Koehler, wife of Tech. Sgt. Ross Koehler, 28th Communications Squadron cyber system operations section chief, participated in many of the events the base offered.

"Today has been a full day," Koehler said. "I had lunch at my husband's squadron, toured the B-1, learned archery, and went fishing--it was a great experience."

In addition to tours and demonstrations, many classes were available for spouses in the Deployment Center, such as "Resiliency in Military Life" and "Reset Weight", hosted by local area business people.

"Spouses could talk to others who have or are experiencing the same challenges which let them know they are not alone," said Loretta Vega, 28th Force Support Squadron deputy director. "We showcased helping agencies and offered seminars and resources to educate spouses on resources that are available, organizations that can assist and gave them skills to coping with military life."

At other locations across the base, Outdoor Campus West employees were available to provide fishing and archery sessions along with a gun safety course.

"This is the second spouse day I have attended," Koehler said. "I have been on base for over two years, and I love taking advantage of these days to come out and really experience the base."

Each year, base personnel ensure families are able 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 mission.

"I think this is critically important to sustaining resiliency within our military families. An event like Spouse Appreciation Day enables military spouses to feel more connected to the Ellsworth community and the Air Force at large." Vega said. "[It] gives us a day to pause and truly recognize and thank the military spouses for their dedication and sacrifices."