FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Dancing, massages and mingling were just some of the ways ladies were able to treat themselves during a night out that provided a one-stop-shop for fun March 16.
Girls Night Out returned to The Landing where women from all over the Wiregrass attended, took part in activities and let loose, according to Janice Erdlitz, Directorate of Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation marketing director.
"We are very proud to be able to share with the entire Wiregrass community exciting events like Girls Night Out," she said. "Opportunities like these events and others help to bridge the gap between the garrison and the local community."
Teresa Whitman-McCall, Better Opportunities for Single Solders adviser and RDS program manager, said the event was also a great way for ladies to come together in a carefree environment and just enjoy an evening of fun.
"We at MWR want to provide a unique and fun experience for those who work so hard every day, our military spouses, our single Soldiers and our community friends," she said. "We understand that women often put their families and/or their jobs before themselves, and we want to provide the chance for them to unwind, relax and have some time to spend on themselves. (This) is a great opportunity for friends to come together in support of each other in a fun and relaxing atmosphere."
For many in attendance, the night was not just a way to let loose with friends, but also a great way to make new friends and get to know the community.
"I'm new Fort Rucker and I heard about this event, so I thought I'd come out and use it as an opportunity to meet some new people," said Jennifer Larson, military spouse. "It's always tough when moving to a new place to immerse yourself in the community, but with something like (Girls Night Out), it definitely makes it easier.
"I've had the chance to meet new people and learn about a lot of stuff that is offered here on Fort Rucker, but also what kind of places are available for me in the other cities around (the installation)," she said. "I feel like I got to Fort Rucker at just the perfect time, so now I'm able to make new friends and get my time here started off on the right foot."
For others, Girls Night Out has become somewhat of a tradition, and for Lucinda Jones and Davina Lewis, military spouses, the event has become a pastime that they won't pass up.
"This is something we make sure to mark on our calendars because it's a great way to start our weekend off," said Jones. "We don't get a lot of time to ourselves since we're usually with our children, but whenever (Girls Night Out) comes around, we make sure to make some time for ourselves."
"It's nice to be able to get together with the girls and just hang out," added Lewis. "Sometimes it's nice to just sit at home with your friends, but other times it's nice to come out and be with a bunch of other ladies, and in this setting it's perfect because it's just for us ladies and we don't have to worry about anything else."
The highlight of the evening for Jones and Lewis is always being able to hit the dance floor, which is just the start of their night, they said.
"Getting out there just helps to loosen us up," said Lewis. "It really kind of sets the tone for the night and even the whole weekend. I really wouldn't have it any other way."
"I really do appreciate that there are things like this for us to do on Fort Rucker because it really lets us get to know the other people in our community, too," added Jones. "As long as I'm here, I'll keep coming out and meeting new people."
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