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Hearts Apart aids in post-deployment reintegration

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Daniel Phelps
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Many Airmen will be deploying from and returning to Shaw within the next month.

Deployments strain not only Airmen, but also their families.

The Airman and Family Readiness Center helps ease the stress of continuous deployment cycles by holding monthly Hearts Apart events as a source of support for military family members.

The next will take place at 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 7 at the AFRC.

There will be activities and food for children starting at 5:30 p.m. while the adults meet to discuss adult issues.

"Whether it's a family's first deployment or their fifth, it's not an easy time," said Master Sgt. Brian Melton, A&FRC personal and family readiness. "People will be at different places in life and each deployment will be different from the last."

This month's Hearts Apart will focus on reintegration education for the spouses to help them understand and be ready for the changes and challenges faced with return, said Senior Master Sgt. John Sherman, A&FRC NCOIC. Spouses will be able to discuss whatever they need to get the answers they want.

A military and family life consultant, a key spouse and an experienced deployed spouse will be present to help facilitate the conversations and assist those experiencing their first deployment.

"Each facilitator will bring something different to the table," Melton said. "These events really help fill the void for new deployed spouses. The unknown can be stressful and it is helpful to have someone there who has been through it before."

Some topics often covered are how reintegration affects kids and many of the possible changes, Sherman added. The topics are adult-centered, but parents are welcome to bring their kids.

There will also be representatives present from various family aid agencies so attendees can have a personal connection with them.

Preregister to ensure there is enough food and supplies, Melton added. Contact the A&FRC at 895-1253.

The A&FRC is also looking for volunteers interested in helping with children.