ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- 35 years ago, Ronald Reagan declared every Friday before Mother’s Day would be known as “Military Spouse Appreciation Day.” On May 10, 2019, the 97th Air Mobility Wing celebrated this event with a luncheon and by hosting speakers, including Air Force spouses.
The ceremony began with an introduction from Col. Eric Carney, commander of the 97th AMW.
“I know from personal experience what a spouse means to a family,” said Carney. “A military spouse is the foundation to a family and is what helps us keep going and stay together. The community of spouses is truly the backbone of any military installation.”
Carney expressed gratitude for what spouses do for their significant others in the military.
“I cannot thank the spouses of this wing enough on behalf of the 97 AMW,” said Carney. “Our service members wouldn’t be where they are without you and we are filled with gratitude for what you do.”
After Carney finished his speech, three spouses gave their perspectives on what life as a military spouse was like.
“I didn’t know what I was getting into when I married into the military,” said Anthony Vaughans, husband of Maj. Marshalria Vaughans, commander of the 97 Communications Squadron. “My first flight ever was a flight to our first duty station in Germany.”
Anthony told attendees about his first Thanksgiving in Germany and a poorly carved a turkey during a group dinner.
“I made a mess, but everyone told me I did an amazing job,” said Anthony. “That’s when I realized how close of a family the Air Force is. They were so positive, and didn’t make me feel bad like I thought I would.”
This type of commitment to family drove Anthony to become a key spouse.
“When she asked me the first time, I just straight up said no,” said Anthony. “After being on this journey I have a different viewpoint now. I meet some Airmen that were born in 2000 and I just think ‘That’s who I can help.’ I can be the one to help these young service members get everything they need in this community.”
After the speeches, guests were encouraged to mingle and network in order to strengthen the community bonds even further. Even after 30 years, President Reagan’s words still ring true to spouses across the military.
“As volunteers, military spouses have provided exemplary service and leadership in educational, community, recreational, religious, social and cultural endeavors,” said Reagan in his proclamation. “As parents and homemakers, they preserve the cornerstone of our Nation's strength—the American family.”