Army Community Service dedicates day to Fort Leonard Wood military spouses

By Kyrene Resel (Leonard Wood)May 14, 2015

Army Community Service dedicates day to Fort Leonard Wood military spouses
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (May 15, 2015) -- Army Community Service hosted a special day for military spouses Friday during Military Spouse Appreciation Day.

According to Carol Patton, the ACS Relocation Program manager, military spouses are the glue that holds a military Family together.

"We support military spouses, as they are the backbone of our Soldiers, and we wanted to say how much we appreciate them and what they do," Patton said. "They support (their service member), they encourage them, and they go through the heartaches with them, as they go from station-to-station and job-to-job."

ACS's goal was to create a welcoming atmosphere in which spouses could relax and learn something new.

"We hope this gives them a chance to meet new people, as well as hopefully a chance to relax for just a little bit, enjoy some food and fun and learn more about ACS,"

Patton said.

There was no shortage of events for the spouses to take part in.

There was a soda shop, which provided refreshments, conversations about finances, couponing classes, investing information, crafts and even a Zumba class.

Evangelynn Vasquez, originally of McAllen, Texas, has been at Fort Leonard Wood for several months, but having two children at home has made adjusting to the area a little difficult.

"I stay at home with my babies all day," Vasquez said. "Since my husband joined at an older age, it has been harder to make friends since the kids he works with are fresh out of high school. "(Today it) has been nice to meet others. Everyone has been so friendly," she said.

Vasquez's husband, Spc. Roel Vasquez, said behind every successful Soldier is a supportive Family and this sort of event provides a unique outlet for them.

"Events like this build morale among the spouses and the Soldiers themselves, Vasquez said.

Vasquez said he would encourage everyone learn about the resources ACS has to offer.

Related Links:

Fort Leonard Wood FLICKR

Fort Leonard Wood GUIDON newspaper

Fort Leonard Wood website