Operation Retreat Haven Published March 11, 2010 By Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Seidl 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Operation Retreat Haven, a free weekend retreat to better prepare all Airmen, single or married, for upcoming deployments, is 7-9 May this year at Quartz Mountain. Operation Retreat Haven is held twice a year in May and October for up to 35 Airmen and any immediate family. The intent of the retreat is to strengthen the full spectrum of relationships for all military deployers. A common misconception is that Operation Retreat Haven is for married couples or families only; in fact, all military deployers are welcome. Enrichment seminars include communication skills and relationship enhancement. Base helping agencies offer breakout sessions on deployment support. Families are given resources to use during deployments. Other involved agencies on base include the Airman and Family Readiness Center, Family Advocacy, Health and Wellness Center, and Military OneSource. The Child Development Center provides child care during the workshops at no charge. Ample family enrichment time is reserved for activities such as horseback riding, hiking, movies, canoeing, boating, and a western-style bonfire (with smores!), as well as time to simply spend talking with your family before deploying. Free from the distractions at home, deployers and family members of all ages and roles can take quality time together. Base Wing Chaplain, Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Harp, says "May's retreat is enhanced by a grant supporting the Year of the Air Force Family. All of the past retreats have been a great time, but be assured May 7-9 will be extra special!" Sign up through the Chapel starting March 15, and call the Chapel, (580) 481- 7485, for more information.