Military spouses appreciated at annual event

By Amy SunseriJune 4, 2010

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FORT HUACHUCA, Ariz. -- Fort Huachuca's military spouses were recognized May 26 for their devotion and dedication to their Soldiers. Army Community Services held Military Spouse Appreciation Night at the Thunder Mountain Activity Centre. The event is held annually each May across Army installations to say "thank you" to spouses who unconditionally support their Soldiers.

"It's just an opportunity for them to kick back and relax," said Adoratia Purdy, Army Family Action Plan Army Family Team Building program manager and Army volunteer coordinator.

The event was also an opportunity for new and veteran spouses to socialize, network and learn about different programs and organizations on post and throughout the Department of the Army.

"It's so important to the garrison and the leadership for the spouses to know they're supported, and we're here for them in any shape or form," said Purdy. If any spouse needs anything, she recommends they come to ACS first.

"We're a one-stop shop for all of their quality-of-life needs," she said.

Throughout the evening, spouses enjoyed food and refreshments provided by TMAC. Many took to the dance floor as the disk jockey played popular dance songs like the electric slide.

"I think these [events] are awesome and exactly what we need," said Jennifer Walker, Family Readiness Leader, Company A, 40th Expeditionary Signal Battalion. Walker's husband is preparing to deploy. She stated that events like these are absolutely essential.

"We need this time to get out and refresh ourselves to be a better mother and spouse," Walker explained.

For Wendy Jopson, the event was a way for her to make new friends and see what Fort Huachuca has to offer. Jopson and her husband, Rodney, recently moved here from Rochester, N.Y.

"[We] just got here. He's deploying, so I'm trying to get involved in everything I can now," said Jopson.

"This outreach is absolutely essential," said Morgana Biddix, 11th Signal Brigade, 40th Expeditionary Signal Battalion family readiness support assistant, noting a big problem with spouses is they sometimes feel isolated, and that the Army has forgotten about them.

"We support the Families, so that the Family can support their Soldiers," she said, explaining events like military appreciation night are wonderful because they show the spouses that somebody does care.

Victoria Salazar's husband, who is attached to the 86th Signal Battalion, said events such as these are a nice break from one's everyday routine.

"They're a good way for spouses to come together, meet new people and get valuable information." Salazar felt some people don't have time to attend events such as this one, but recommends those who have never been to one to try it.

"You might like it," she added.