Heart Link helps spouses learn about Air Force Published Aug. 24, 2007 By Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- The Airman & Family Readiness Center will host Heart Link to introduce welcome newly married spouses to the Air Force Sept. 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. "We want to strengthen Air Force families through information knowledge about military programs, agencies and the mission," said Janis Wood, A&FRC lead community readiness consultant. "Our goal (with Heart Link) is to enhance overall mission readiness." "Heart Link was designed to help new spouses gain a better understanding of the Air Force by giving them useful information," she said. "The main objective is to strengthen military families and enhance mission readiness. Because spouses play an important role in re-enlistment decisions, therefore impacting retention, a major program goal is to help spouses, especially those with the Air Force five years or less, acclimate to the Air Force/military environment." Topics of discussion at Heart Link range from Air Force customs and courtesies to how to read a Leave and Earnings Statement. There are briefings about services provided by helping agencies on base such as protocol, family advocacy outreach, chaplain, services, marketing, Tricare and the Health and Wellness Center. Additionally, the group learns about the military rank structure, military acronyms and more. The orientation closes with a focus on the importance of the Air Force family and a graduation where spouses receive a Heart Link coin from the wing commander. "Originally, we targeted those who have been affiliated with the military five years or less, because we want to give them information about their benefits and help them understand what the military is about," Ms. Wood said. "But those spouses who have never attended before may also gain valuable information about resources available to them." The A&FRC provides lunch and child care may be reimbursed. "Spouses can contact the Child Development Center or the Family Home Day Care providers to obtain child care," Ms. Wood said. "When they attend Heart Link, they will request a day care reimbursement form and present it to the provider." Graduated from recent Heart Link events commented about that they enjoyed most about the course: · "I am glad I came today because of the fact that there are others who can relate to your new experiences." · "Meeting other spouses and learning the different things on this base." · "Although I have been a military spouse for 18 years, I have never attended a formal program on military services, benefits, and protocol. Excellent!" · "The paneling in the afternoon. I loved hearing from representatives from each group." The A&FRC staff hopes that attendees of the upcoming class feel the same way. "Don't miss an opportunity to learn as much or even more than your military spouse knows about the Air Force," Ms. Wood said. Seats are limited and reservations are required. For more information or to make a reservation, visit the A&FRC in building 307 or call 452-6422.