Saturday at the park

Published Dec. 8, 2008
By Senior Airman Matthew Davis
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Airmen and deployed families enjoyed lunch and a beautiful view of Sumter's Swan Lake Iris Gardens at a Hearts Apart event Saturday, Dec. 6. The Airmen & Family Readiness Center started the Hearts Apart program to provide care and support for deployed spouses and their children.

On an overcast day at the Swan Lake Iris Gardens, children ran carefree across the playground. The parents talked amongst themselves while keeping an eye on the children. As more families arrived, the sun started to peek from above the clouds. Lunch was provided but the only thing the kids could think of was getting back on the jungle gym.

"It's a time to give parents a break and get the kids to burn off some energy," said Master Sgt. Marsha Madsen, Readiness NCO at the A&FRC.

Friends of Family Support, a group under the A&FRC, takes donations for these events which happen at least once a month. Volunteers from the Shaw AFB community support this important cause and are vital contributors who help make Hearts Apart a success.
"Hearts Apart is also great for getting families of deployed members to network with each other," said Sergeant Madsen.

The next Hearts Apart event is the Children's Christmas Party at the A&FRC Thursday, Dec. 11, 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Contact the A&FRC at (803) 895-1252 to sign up.