Deployments, remote tours, Heart to Heart Published Dec. 19, 2006 By Tarsha Storey 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- When a military member deploys or goes on a remote tour, sometimes it can be hard for the spouse and family to feel connected to the military community. Heart to Heart, a program sponsored by the Airmen and Family Readiness Center, is designed to alleviate some of that disconnection by providing an avenue for those spouses and family members to meet each other and share experiences and information, said Tech. Sgt. Anthony Tyler, 20th Mission Support Squadron Airmen and Family Readiness Center Readiness NCO. Meetings are for the spouses and children of deployed or remote members, including spouses who are military as well, said Master Sgt. John Kennedy, 20th MSS AFRC superintendent. "Yes, I have my squadron family, but it helps create a family with those that are in the same position as you. We encourage each other to keep our minds off the fact we missed our spouses so much," said Tech. Sgt. LaWanda Parker, 20th Mission Support Squadron commander support staff NCO in charge.The group is also open to spouses and children of deployed or remote members of other services who may be living in the area, Sgt. Tyler said."Heart to Heart helps keep the family members engaged with the military," Sgt. Kennedy said. It also gives people the opportunity to share additional information on services the base has to offer spouses and families. The meetings also provide an opportunity for those who need help with an issue and may be reluctant to approach their sponsor's unit, Sgt. Kennedy said. Heart to Heart is typically held the fourth week of each month. During the meeting family members can gather for a family activity and children are always welcome, Sgt. Tyler said. Activities at each event vary. Past events have included an ice cream social, a pool party, a potluck meal, a spa night and a pizza and movie night, Sgt. Tyler said.