Aviano celebrates Month of the Military Spouse Published April 30, 2009 By Staff Sgt. Lindsey Maurice 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- The Aviano community joins the Department of Defense as it pays a special tribute to an integral part of the military family this month - the military spouse. Several base agencies will host a variety of events and classes throughout May, tailored specifically to military spouses as well as a special Spouse Appreciation Drawing on May 8 that includes a multitude of prizes. "Our military spouses are unique in that they play an integral part in our active-duty member's military life," said Pauline Madison, Airman and Family Readiness Center family support technician. "Military spouses endure numerous challenges such as frequent relocations around the world, sustaining the family and household responsibilities when our husbands or wives are on a deployment, not being able to maintain employment longevity or a career and the list goes on. "What we are hoping to achieve by sponsoring the various classes, events and activities is to honor and celebrate the contributions and sacrifices of our military spouses and to say thank you for being resilient in support of the 31st Fighter Wing mission and in the defense of our country and interests abroad." Brig. Gen. Craig Franklin, 31st FW commander, said he is especially appreciative of the support and sacrifices Aviano spouses make day in and day out. "This month we recognize one of the most vital segments of our Air Force team - our military spouses," he said. "Without their endless support, strength, love and sacrifice, our service to the U.S. Air Force would not be possible. "I personally thank Julie and each and every spouse at Aviano Air Base for all that you do. I encourage each married Airman to let your spouse know just how much you appreciate them, not just this month, but year round. Thank you again for your service and sacrifice." The month-long base celebration kicks off with a Military Spouse Information Fair May 1 and 15 from 10 a.m. to noon at the base exchange and a Spouse Appreciation Drawing that runs May 1-8. Spouses can enter the drawing by placing their name and contact information in boxes located at the information fair and at the A&FRC. The prizes, donated by various base private organizations, base agencies and the local Italian community, include gift baskets, massage certificates and more. The drawing will be held May 8 at 4 p.m. at the A&FRC. Participants do not have to be present to win. Other Month of the Military Spouse events include: - Partner Relationship Enhancement Program (4-part class), May 4 from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Family Advocacy, Building 108 - Basic Financial Planning & Investing class, May 5 from 1-3:30 p.m. and May 7 from 6-8:30 p.m. at the AFRC - Bundles for Babies, May 6 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the A&FRC - Wee Ones Play Group, May 7 from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Family Advocacy, Building 108 (For moms and their babies age 0-18 months) - Keys to Being Financially Strong class, May 8 from noon to 2 p.m. at the A&FRC - Mothers' Day Brunch, May 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the La Bella Vista Club - Couples Connection Dinner, May 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the LBV - Key Spouse meeting, May 19 at 10 a.m. at the LBV - 1,2,3 Magic Parenting class, May 20 from 9 a.m. to noon at Family Advocacy, Building 108 - Spouse It Up, May 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Personnel Alert Holding Area - Understanding Your Personality Preference class, May 27 from 1-2:30 p.m. at the A&FRC "We are sponsoring several classes specifically for spouses to attend and assist them with the tools necessary for mission readiness," said Ms. Madison. "This month's Spouse It Up event also includes a special theme of 'Where Spouses are Shining Stars,' and offers a great opportunity for Aviano spouses to have some fun, enjoy free food and prizes and network with one another." For more information on any of the events, call the A&FRC at 632-5407, Family Advocacy at 632-5667 or the LBV at 632-4303.