Heartlink: helping spouses understand their vital role

  • Published
  • By Deborah Marie Gibson
  • Thunderbolt staff writer
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz - --  Thirteen Luke spouses gathered at the Airman and Family Readiness Flight Aug.
29 to learn about the Air Force and understand why they are considered the "heart"
of the Air Force family. 

"We are pleased this Heartlink was such a success," said Terry Jarrell, 56th Mission
Support Squadron work/life consultant. "The goal of the program is to strengthen
military families by increasing spouses' understanding about the Air Force and
the vital role they play. The program also gives spouses the opportunity to socialize
and make new friends." 

Besides a briefing from Brig. Gen. Tom Jones, 56th Fighter Wing commander,
representatives from various base agencies educated spouses about the benefits available to military members and their families. 

"Being a new Air Force spouse, Heartlink helped me to understand what services are available," said Alana Whitener, spouse of 2nd Lt. Jalen Whitener, 309th Fighter Squadron. "I also gained a better understanding about my husband's job and our community." 

Along with the briefings from base agencies, other topics included you and the Air Force; where you fit in; introduction to the Air Force family; toolkit for preparedness; communicating within the Air Force; healthy families and the vital importance of the Air Force family. 

Spouses also played games such as Spouse Jeopardy and Whose Agency is
it Anyway. 

A complimentary breakfast, lunch, goodie bag and a $25 grocery gift card were additional perks of the day. 

"Heartlink is an excellent resource for spouses new to the military as well as spouses who have been in the military for awhile," said Shannon Wiggins, spouse of 1st Lt. Jeremy Wiggins, 309th Fighter Squadron. 

The next Heartlink is scheduled for Oct. 24. To register, call the Airman and Family Readiness Flight at (623) 856-6550.