Trick-or-treat: A&FRC gives deployment-affected families something good to eat

Photo By Senior Airman Valerie Seelye | Spangdahlem Air Base families trick-or-treat in the Airman and Family Readiness Center during a deployed-family event at Spangdahlem AB, Germany, Oct. 17, 2019. Volunteers representing different units decorated Halloween-themed doors, dressed up, and handed out candy to deployment-affected families. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Valerie Seelye)  

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, RP, GERMANY

10.17.2019

Story by Airman 1st Class Valerie Seelye 

52nd Fighter Wing

SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- U.S. Air Force Airmen, from the 52nd Maintenance Group, and key spouses hosted a trick-or-treat event at the Airman and Family Readiness Center, here, Oct. 17, 2019, to provide support to families affected by a deployment.

Key spouses decorated Halloween-themed doors in the A&FRC, each representing a different base group, agency, or squadron. They dressed up in costumes and handed out candy to families.

The A&FRC organizes deployed-family events every month in partnership with different organizations and units. They are open to all families currently affected by a deployment or those who will soon deploy, those on remote assignments, and those who have returned from a deployment or short tour within the last six months.

“Let’s face it, the struggle is real,” said Master Sgt. Michael Benoit, 52nd Force Support Squadron A&FRC superintendent. “Holding down the fort while a spouse or parent is deployed is very difficult. Our program aims to bring those families together and give something back.”

The A&FRC is scheduled to hold deployed-family events on the third Thursday of every month from 5-7 p.m., although dates are subject to change during holiday months. The A&FRC invites base leadership and agencies to provide services, support, and resources, such as providing a free meal.

“It is just a small way for the community to say thank you and we are here for you,” Benoit said.

To find out more about deployed-family events, contact the A&FRC at DSN 452-6422 or 06565-61-6422.

• Date Taken: 10.17.2019
• Date Posted: 10.18.2019 06:32
• Story ID: 348166
• Location: SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, RP, DE