28th Maintenance Group hosts first quarter Heart Link program

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Anania Tekurio
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  The 28th Maintenance Group teamed up with the Airman and Family Readiness Center to welcome spouses to this year's first quarter Heartlink orientation program, Feb. 28.

The Heartlink program is designed to introduce and familiarize spouses to the military lifestyle and the base's mission while also providing a venue for spouses to get to know one another and learn from others in similar situations.

"Heartlink is a great way for new spouses to learn about the ins and outs of military life," said Karen Hazle-Johnson, AFRC director. "It also familiarizes them with the support network on base."

Every quarter, one of Ellsworth's four groups hosts the orientation that starts with a unit mission briefing and meal at the Dakota's Club. All newcomers are invited to attend - whether it be their first base or one of a string of many - and meet with base leaders, key spouses and other representatives from agencies across the wing.

"This is our first duty station," said Kimberly Rupley, spouse of Senior Airman Sean Rupley, 37th Bomb Squadron avionics technician. "I don't know a thing about military life, so I am very interested in learning about what to expect and finding others to bond with."

Throughout the day, a number of base leaders including Col. Kevin Kennedy, 28th BW commander, Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Peterson, 28th BW command chief, and several group commanders presented information about their respective organizations and the role they play in accomplishing the base's mission.

"It was so surprising and nice to meet Colonel Kennedy and Colonel McFarland," said Bonnie Nguyen, spouse of Staff Sgt. Huy Nguyen, 34th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron offensive avionic system technician. "To be able to speak with them in person was great and made me feel like they care about us."

In addition to the briefings, the newcomers were given a tour of a B-1 and visited several locations around base including the B-ONE Yard Thrift and Consignment Store.

"It was exciting to be able to go up and see the B-1," said Erin Yoakam, spouse of Staff Sgt. Zachary Yoakam, 28th Operations Support Squadron survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist. "I urge all new spouses to attend Heartlink. There is so much I've learned and seen. I'm glad I decided to come."

For more information or to register for the next Heartlink orientation, call the AFRC at (605) 385-4663.