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Apart but Together

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jensen Stidham
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affaircs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE S.C. --  Spouses and children of deployed or remote tour Airmen came together for a "Saturday in the Park" at Memorial Lake Pavilion here Saturday, July 20. Sponsored by the Airman and Family Readiness Center, the Hearts Apart program offered free food and fun for the families.

On a sunny afternoon, with temperatures averaging around 81 degrees F, families arrived at the pavilion ready for enjoyment. Participants enjoyed pizza and subs as well as other food. Parents conversed among themselves while their children rid themselves of energy, bouncing on bouncy castles and running around on the playground.

"These events are very kid-oriented, giving them a reason to get out of the house and get active," Said Ann Mussio, wife of Staff Sgt. David Mussio, 20th Security Forces K-9 Unit, currently deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan.

While the children are out of school, Hearts Apart puts on kid-friendly events and although the children love coming to these events, so do the parents.

"It brings a network of adults together, working with each other, making the deployment for the family members left behind a little bit easier to go through. It makes them feel as if they're not left behind," said TSgt. Singleton, Readiness NCO at the Airman and Family Readiness Center (A&FRC).

Events are held monthly and are usually themed towards either the spouses or children.

"There is always room for more families to attend." Said TSgt. Singleton.

To get involved or support the families of deployed or remote tour Airmen contact the A&FRC at (803) 895-1252.