Kelly's Invitation

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Anthony Jennings
  • 96th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  While we honor our men and women in uniform who defend our country's ideals of liberty, democracy and justice with awards, medals and ribbons, what recognition do we offer to their spouses? They are the ones who live with unusual challenges, raise children alone for extended periods of time and endure restless nights awaiting the return of their husband or wife. 

For Kelly Hooker, spouse of a former Air Force military working dog handler/trainer, that recognition came in the form of an invitation to visit our country's capital and a tour of the White House May 9. President George W. Bush proclaimed May 9 as Military Spouse Day. Spouses were honored for their volunteer service in support of the active-duty servicemembers and the military family. 

"Military spouses embody the courage, nobility of duty and love of country that inspires every American," said President George W. Bush. "On Military Spouse Day, we pay tribute to the husbands and wives who support their spouses in America's Armed Forces during times of war and peace." 

Mrs. Hooker was nominated for the President's Volunteer Service Award to represent the Air Force. Though she was not chosen, she was still invited to the event honoring the nominees. 

"There are definitely times when things can get stressful as a military spouse, especially while my husband was deployed during this time of war," said Mrs. Hooker. "But thankfully I had my family and friends that helped me out when I really needed it. That's what really is important, support." 

The primary criteria for selection were a strong and demonstrated commitment to hands-on volunteer service. All nomination package submitted had to include a narrative of the candidate's current volunteer service and personal information such as name and address, also the branch of service represented by the candidate's spouse and the number of years on active duty. 

Mrs. Hooker currently volunteers for the Military Working Dog Memorial program which will be hosting the MWD memorial and retirement ceremony August 1, at 2 p.m. in the Air Armament Museum. 

Despite accepting an invitation to the White House for her exceptional efforts to support her family and nation, Mrs. Hooker remains humble and diverts any unnecessary spotlight. 

"What I really hope to receive is not recognition or self promotion," said Mrs. Hooker. "I just hope I raise enough money to make the [MWD] ceremony something special."