AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- The heat isn’t the only thing rising as summer grows closer. Aviano AB will be experiencing a rise in people, aircraft and possibly noise as exercises begin to kick off.
This year’s exercises will demonstrate the agile interoperability of air, land, and sea capabilities of multiple NATO allies in order to defend key terrain throughout Europe.
U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Kevin Martens, 31st Fighter Wing mission director executive officer, explained, “The 31st FW’s participation in this exercise and future exercises demonstrates the wing’s commitment toward restoring readiness and strengthening national defense.”
To fortify warfighter readiness, units across the 31st FW work together during exercises to provide lethal, rapidly ready support for U.S. and NATO partners.
Martens explained, “Executing these exercises are a critical piece of the United States military’s ability to deter not only our nation’s potential adversaries but also the potential adversaries of our nation’s partners.”
With the increase in activity around base, it’s essential to keep a balanced work-home life. Taking care of the Air Force’s most precious asset – the warfighter – is crucial.
“31st FW Airmen should keep in mind the importance of planning and communication,” said Martens, “Specifically, planning their leave and communicating with their friends and family members the potential for longer work hours and the important part family members play in a supportive role of their efforts during these exercises.”
The A&FRC hosts a Hearts Apart program that supports families of deployed members. Their next event is a free and private showing of Avengers: Endgame on April 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Free popcorn and a drink per person will be available. The Hearts Apart program also sets up deployed family dinners once a month. Information on dates and locations can be obtained by calling the A&FRC.
For Wyvern Spouses, a free resiliency workshop is being held by the base Community Action Team at La Bella Vista Club on May 3 starting at 8:30 a.m. Spouses can sign up by calling 0434-30-1248.
Some helpful resources Airmen and families can use to take care of themselves during this time are the Chaplain’s office, the Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC), and the 31st Medical Group. More information for these resources can be found below.
Aviano Chapel
Comm: 0434-30-5211
DSN: 314-632-5211
A&FRC
Comm: 0434-30-5407
DSN: 314-632-5407
31 MDG
Comm: 0434-30-5000
DSN: 314-632-5000