JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
The Airman and Family Readiness Center is honoring military families in November as it recognizes Month of the Military Family, during the Year of the Military Family.
"While every month produces new triumphs and challenges, the month of November is set aside especially to honor military families. Being part of a military family is not always a stress-free life. Military families encounter countless educational, adventurous and challenging experiences," said Shelly L. Walker, 316th Force Support Squadron A&FRC community readiness consultant.
Ms. Walker contends that while there are many challenges for military families, there are many benefits, as well.
"Enduring frequent moves, separation, long hours and the thought of war, make military families unique. Living among a military community offers families rewarding benefits such as a sense of community, access to base facilities, the opportunity to see the world, and a sense of fulfillment knowing they are contributing to our nation's well-being. These are benefits that most civilian families will never get the opportunity to enjoy," she said.
Ms. Walker said the sacrifices children made should be acknowledged and recognized.
"We must not overlook the small voices that are part of the military family," Ms. Walker said. "Children often endure the hardest challenges of growing up within a military family. The month-to-month challenges our children conquer, make them the true unseen heroes. Their level of adaptiveness cannot be matched. They unselfishly sacrifice part of their childhood to secure America's freedom."
Military spousal sacrifices are something that should be praised.
"We must not forget the spouse, for they bear the responsibilities of the family within their hearts. They support the families though several miles apart. Military spouses are tasked to plan and prepare the families for the constant changes in their lives," Ms. Walker explained.
She said that though many military members do not hold prominent positions of power, they are the essential component that counts the most.
"As we begin to celebrate the holiday season, remember it takes all the parts of a military family to serve our country. The month of November is designated to honor the military family, so let's not forget to pour out a cup of hospitality to them," she said.
Several activities, have been planned by the A&FRC for Nov. 13 at the base exchange from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., including a drawing to give away hospitality kits, which will include home-made hot cocoa and soup mixes to help warm our military families within the upcoming winter months.
For more information, contact Ms. Walker at 301-981-0063.