Photo By Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Snyder | Children run to collect candy during the Hearts Apart event at Spangdahlem Air Base,...... read more read more
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Airmen and their families enjoyed a free gourmet dinner and an evening filled with a variety of activities at the Hearts Apart dinner Sept. 21, at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany.
The monthly event was hosted for the first time by 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron and CES Top IV to support families of deployed Airmen. This event is usually hosted by the Airman and Family Readiness Center along with the base United Service Organization and the Chiefs and First Sergeants.
“The idea to host this event initially came from Master Sgt. Shakib Rahman, Civil Engineer Top IV president,” said Master Sgt. Michael Benoit, 52nd Force Support Squadron. “He wanted to try and offer something different for these families, so CE offered to fund, organize and host the event.”
The night was Mexican-themed and more than 70 Airmen and their families were provided a free, catered meal served by volunteers from the 52nd CES.
“The event is paramount because it gives the spouses time to unwind as well as give them an opportunity to step out and get to know members of their community,” said Tech. Sgt. Wayman Powers, 52nd CES.
There were several different activities for the kids such as a bouncy house, coloring books, and a piñata. Sparky the Fire Dog even made a visit to the event.
Service members can be tasked for deployments at any given moment, leaving spouses without the complimentary support of their significant other.
“I believe that spouses contribute a huge amount of support while the member is deployed,” said Powers. “This was an opportunity for myself and others to help show our gratitude and appreciation for their support.”
Families taking part in the raffle were given the opportunity to win a variety of prizes, to include gift baskets and gift certificates.
“We received praise throughout the night. I was stopped by a spouse and she stated ‘this is awesome’,” said Powers. “That comment alone made our efforts worthwhile.”
Despite challenges those left behind might face, programs like Hearts Apart can help ease the stressors of a deployment.
“Hopefully this will interest other units to participate so we can continue to offer these families a fun night and show them how appreciative we are of their sacrifices,” said Benoit.
| Date Taken: | 09.27.2017 |
| Date Posted: | 09.27.2017 07:38 |
| Story ID: | 249760 |
| Location: | SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, RP, DE |
| Web Views: | 27 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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