19 AW recognizes Month of the Military Family

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Mariam K. Springs
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The 19th Airlift Wing recognized Month of the Military Family with a “Something For Everyone” themed carnival event at the Walters Community Support Center Nov. 2, 2019.

November is the Month of the Military Family, honoring the sacrifices of military families across the globe. Air Force families come from all of the service’s components — Active Duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve — and all have a role in supporting our military and country.

“We all can be busy, but it’s nice to pump the brakes and say thank you to military families for their sacrifices,” said Wayne Ojala, Airman & Family Readiness Center community readiness consultant.

While no military family is the same, each branch of the Armed Forces offers programs that support all types of military families. The Air Force's avenue of support comes through the A&FRC.

To celebrate this month, the A&FRC hosted an event with carnival games, a car show, petting zoo, food and drinks, and other fun entities for families to enjoy.

“It’s an opportunity for families to come together,” said Sharon Thompson, A&FRC flight chief. “It’s a chance to get connected with the military community, available resources and have a good time.”

Family readiness plays a crucial role in our resiliency and affects first-line leaders and Airmen readiness. Airmen are encouraged to use family resources available to them, as they can help families stay resilient during, in between and after deployments.

According to Thompson, the A&FRC provides the needed resources to keep Airmen and their families resilient.

 “When you talk to people about what’s most important to them — it’s family,” Thompson said.

The A&FRC provides support for military families through programs like Life Coaching, Relocation Assistance, Employment and Career Support and the Exceptional Family Member Program.

“Everything we do is geared towards our military population and their families,” Ojala said. “If we’re doing things for military members, we’re also encouraging family members to come with them. It’s a cradle to grave operation for us — everything in between, we have services for.”

A healthy family is an important part of maintaining Ready Warriors.

”When your family is healthy, enjoys what you do, and they support you, it makes your job easier. It’s a team effort, and no one does it by themselves.”

For more information on support provided to Airmen and families contact the A&FRC at (501) 987-2667.