FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. -- Twenty-one spouses of 4th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade deployed Soldiers spent their Wednesday as guests of the Rolla Chamber of Commerce for a spa and salon day to recognize the sacrifices made by the Army family.
"I believe that our local community does a great job honoring those men and women who put themselves in harm's way everyday to keep our families safe," said Eric Goser, local non-profit organization Phelps for the Fort vice president. "But I think it's just as important for us to take a moment to say, 'hey…thanks…we recognize you.'"
"You allow that Soldier to provide the freedoms we enjoy and it is because of your dedication that they are able to focus on that mission," he said.
Phelps for the Fort and the Sverdrup chapter of the Army Engineer Association sponsored the spouse's day which included hair, makeup or nail services followed by lunch and frozen yogurt.
"This day was amazing," said Nyree Bradford, mother of three children and military spouse of the 509th Engineer Company.
Cpt. Todd Bradford assumed command of the unit only months before their departure to Afghanistan.
"Some days are very difficult," said Nyree Bradford. "Todd likes to be with his Soldiers and lead from the front."
Nyree Bradford explained that while her husband fights on the frontlines overseas, she is on the frontlines at home.
"It can be exhausting," she said. "Days like this are just what our spouses need to recharge."
The spouses spent the afternoon receiving spa treatments and sharing stories of their Soldiers and families.
"I am so grateful for the support that our community has shown us today," said Loida Burke, military spouse of the 463d Military Police Company.
Burke is five-months pregnant and admitted that she would never have enjoyed a day at the spa if it wasn't for the community.
"The community enjoyed this special day just as much as the spouses did," said Stevie Kerse, executive director of the Rolla Chamber of Commerce. "The ladies at the spa were delighted to give them this special treat."
"We received so many notes, emails and text messages," she said. "Every one said it felt good to give back."
"We wanted to reach out and do something special for the spouses who are usually behind the scenes," Kerse said. "And I think that we were able to do just that!"
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