EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Airman & Family Readiness Center’s Heart Link quarterly workshop helps familiarize new military spouses with the military community.
Heart Link focuses on the Eglin mission; military customs; traditions; protocol procedures and available resources and services, said J. J. McDaniel, the Heart Link program facilitator.
“Heart Link is a warm welcome to those who aren’t familiar with the way the military does business,” he said. “It reaches out to those spouses making a difficult transition. Often times, the learning curve can be steep. We’re here to help get them up to speed and acclimated to the military environment.”
Following an introduction by Brig. Gen. Christopher Azzano, 96th Test Wing commander, the spouses are briefed by base agency representatives to familiarize them with available support.
Last, the base commander returns to present the attendees with Heart Link coins and certificates of completion.
Olivia Hussey, wife of 2nd Lt. Tyler Hussey, 36th Electronic Warfare Squadron, recently attended a Heart Link workshop.
“I really enjoyed it,” said Olivia, who has lived here since September 2015. “It was nice to get to know some of the other ladies, and find out more about the base and its available resources. I’ve referred my new friends to the class and I would recommend it all new military spouses.”
The Marshall, Mo. native said she enjoyed the protocol brief the most.
“They talked to us about military customs, traditions, etiquette and what attire to wear to various events and functions,” she said.
It was also explained why the national anthem; reveille and retreat are played at their given times, and how to respond appropriately.
The Heart Link workshops are held quarterly at the Airman & Family Readiness Center, located in Bldg. 205 on Van Matre Avenue. All spouses are invited to attend. A free continental breakfast and lunch are provided. For more information, call 882-9060.