Spouses are celebrated at the Rock

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Regina Agoha
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  Team Little Rock came together May 7 - 9 to honor the unsung heroes of the military: spouses. The spirit of Spouse Appreciation Day was celebrated at Little Rock Air Force Base with events expressing how important the support of military spouses is to those who serve.

Spouse Appreciation Day was sponsored by the Airman and Family Readiness Center and included a free tour of Jacksonville, a free spa night and a bazaar at the Warfit track, concluding the three-day event.

President Ronald Reagan recognized the profound importance of spouse commitment to the readiness and well-being of military members and declared May 23, 1984, the first Military Spouse Day. The U.S. Secretary of Defense, Caspar Weinberger, standardized the date by declaring the Friday before Mother's Day as Military Spouse Day.

Spouses and their families from all branches of service, whether active duty or retired, were welcomed to enjoy the festivities of the events.

This is the second year Little Rock AFB has participated in celebrating the strength, endurance and support of military spouses.

"The Airman and Family Readiness Center was very excited to sponsor three events specifically designed to show honor to the selfless efforts of our military spouses," said Kori Ramirez, a 19th Force Support Squadron community readiness consultant. "In addition to the popular Spa Night from last year, a fun tour of Jacksonville and a Bazaar were added to showcase products and services by spouses for spouses."

Ramirez said the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce collaborated with the A&FRC to provide the tour of Jacksonville. Students from Arthur's Beauty School volunteered their time to provide the spa services to spouses, and more than 60 vendors reserved booths at the bazaar to showcase their products and services to spouses.

"The Bazaar was awesome," said Nicole Erickson, a 19th Force Support Squadron IT technician, 10-year Air Force veteran and military spouse. "It was nice to do something with my family and have all of us together."

Ramirez is hopeful and confident that Military Spouse Appreciation Day will continue to be a success and become bigger and better each year.

"We hope that spouses felt encouraged and appreciated for the sacrifices they have made in support of those defending our nation," said Ramirez.