WIESBADEN, Germany -- Spouses got an in-depth look at the many garrison resources available and how to get around in Wiesbaden during a new Spouse Orientation Program. The day-long program provides insight on everything from local schools to child care, transportation to Tricare.
U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Command Sgt. Maj. Chad L. Pinkston welcomed attendees to the first Spouse Orientation Program on March 20 at the Wiesbaden Entertainment Center.
"Please share this program with any family member you come in contact with," said Pinkston, encouraging all community spouses to use the face-face orientation to get all of their "tough questions" answered. "If they can't answer your questions, they'll find someone who can get you an answer."
"We're ambassadors of the United States here in Germany," added Pinkston, saying helping spouses feel more at home during their time overseas is an important part of the new Spouse Orientation Program.
"This program was built for you guys," said Pam Parker, an Army spouse, community volunteer and the program's originator. "Sometimes spouses are left out. ... This program is intended to set you up for success during your time here in Wiesbaden.
"What we're trying to do is to take care of our families that are coming in to Wiesbaden. The Soldiers and Service members have the opportunity to get in-briefs in order to know about the garrison and the community, but there's really nothing available for the spouses," Parker said. The program, focused exclusively on both active duty and civilian spouses, Parker added, provides an overview of all that the garrison has to offer in conjunction with a walking tour of Wiesbaden.
"This U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden is here to support you," said Art Jones, Wiesbaden Army Community Service director. "We have no other reason to be here but to support you.
"We want you to tell us what you need to know," said Jones, asking for feedback from spouses who attend the Spouse Orientation Program.
"This is the launch of this program and we want to hear your suggestions for improvement," said Mary Cheney, Wiesbaden ACS's Army Volunteer Corps manager.
"There are lots of things in our community -- both on and off post -- that you may never have heard of that are amazing," said Peter Witmer, Wiesbaden's school liaison officer. "That's why it's important for you to get connected."
The Spouse Orientation Program is held Tuesdays, starting at 9 a.m., at Army Community Service. For more information call Army Community Service at civ (0611) 143-548-9201.
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