HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- In honor of Military Spouse Appreciation Day, the 49th Force Support Squadron Airman and Family Readiness Center hosted a free weekend trip for Holloman military spouses to de-stress, May 8-9, at Sacramento Camp and Conference Center, New Mexico.
“We have all experienced a challenging year,” said Aimee Keeney, 49th Wing lead Key Spouse mentor. “This retreat was an opportunity for spouses to relax, connect with one another and focus on resilience.”
Supporting families remains a top priority for the 49th Wing command team. Events like this retreat provided an opportunity for spouses to network within the Holloman community.
“My favorite part of the retreat was all of the information I received,” said Hannah Scholl, spouse of an Airman assigned to the 635th Materiel Maintenance Group. “I didn’t realize how many resources were available to me. I also met so many supportive people and realized that I am not alone.”
Over 30 spouses spent the weekend building new connections through hiking, horseback riding and visualization and mindfulness exercises.
“Life is stressful and as military spouses we experience more stress than most,” said Katie Brown, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider. “It can be hard for spouses to connect, so building these connections are an essential way to manage our daily stressors.”
Not only did Brown share her professional expertise with the spouses by providing stress and anxiety coping techniques, but she also hosted a sensory hike where spouses could tap into all five senses for a multi-sensory journey. During the hike, Brown taught spouses how to ground oneself within their natural surroundings in order to reduce stress and anxiety.
“I enjoyed being able to disconnect and take a breath,” said Casey Wheeler, spouse of an Airman assigned to the 29th Attack Squadron. “I was able to connect with like-minded spouses and was given the tools to help with mental health.”
As the retreat came to a close, the 49th Wing command team joined the spouses for breakfast to thank them for their contributions.
“Spouses are a critical part of Team Holloman's success,” said Col. Ryan Keeney, 49th wing commander. “I know you pick up the slack when your spouse goes on temporary duty, works mid-shifts, or deploys. I want to say thank you for stepping into the gap and I hope your spouses thank you regularly."
The selfless contributions of Military spouses’ provides stability which enables mission and family readiness to dramatically increase the quality of life for all Airmen.