ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
The spouses and children of deployed Team Andrews members enjoyed food and friendship at the Freedom Hall Dining Facility recently.
The Deployed Spouses Dinner program encourages friendships, networking with base leadership and agencies and is an opportunity to give spouses time to get together and a time out from cooking.
"The idea behind the Deployed Spouses Dinner is to give spouses an opportunity to socialize while we keep the kids busy with crafts," said Capt. Cody Gravitt, 316th Force Support Squadron Sustainment Services Flight commander. "We want for spouses to know that you are not alone - you are facing the same challenges and frustrations as other spouses in the base community. For that reason, we want to give you and your kids a night out where you can relax, be in a fun and safe environment where you and your family are treated to a night out."
Deployed Spouses Dinner participants were treated to a free meal, courtesy of the Airman and Family Readiness Center, and children's activities included face paintings, coloring and decorating Spring-themed drawings and were given a bright yellow toy tractor or truck donated by Costco.
"We're here to provide information about services on base during their spouses' deployment and show our support of their efforts," said Tech. Sgt. Erika Perrin, 316th FSS A&FRC NCO. Base leadership was in attendance, including a visit from Col. Steven Shepro, 316th Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. James Davis, 316th Wing command chief, along with representatives from various base agencies including A&FRC, the Military and Family Life consultant, and Marketing.
The 316 FSS is looking for ways to better improve the event for spouses and their families as early as next quarter, Captain Gravitt said. "We're looking at four events per year, but making each event a bigger and better event that everyone can enjoy."
Spouses can look for upcoming deployed spouses dinner events in the Spotlight magazine, the Team Andrews Noteboard section of the Capital Flyer and look for flyers at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.
"We back the deployed spouses dinner because it's all a part of taking care of those who are left behind, which is an important part of taking care of the war fighter," Captain Gravitt said. "When we're downrange, we can't take care of the mission if we're worried about who is taking care of our families back home. By having these dinners and allowing spouses to network with each other, base leadership and base agencies, we're helping to improve combat effectiveness overall."