Altus Air Force Base celebrates the Year of the Air Force Family

  • Published
  • By Kenny Scarle
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  It's a unique year at Altus Air Force Base - it's the Year of the Air Force Family. The Air Force has dedicated July 2009 through July 2010 for the campaign designed to develop communication and a warm environment. This program highlights current programs and creates new ones for Airmen and their families throughout the year. Bases all over the world will focus on Airmen and their families in recognition of their dedication and service to the nation.

Year of the Air Force Family Coordinator, 1Lt. Nicole Lueckenhoff said it allows spouses to know the Air Force really values them, especially for Airmen downrange.

"Deployment is hard on the family," Lt. Lueckenhoff said. "You want to know your spouse and family are taken care of while you are gone and not have to worry about them - that the military is looking out for them and for you."

That is why the focus of this campaign is so important and built around four pillars of excellence:
· Health and Wellness: Physical health, psychological health, spiritual wellness, financial health, safety, recreation/leisure, and social networking/wellness.
· Airman & Family Support: Single Airmen programs, deployment support, special needs, child care and youth programs.
· Education, Development and Employment: Support and advocacy for children and spouses; personal and professional development for Airmen (includes civilians).
· Airman and Family Housing: Safe, affordable and available on and off-base housing for single Airmen and families; housing referral and relocation assistance.

Many of the activities Altus AFB have already provided its personnel, such as the Family Fun Day Run and the grand opening of the Discovery Center in the Airmen Family Readiness Center, center on these principles - taking care of the needs of all family members.

"The military life is hard and can be stressful," Lt. Lueckenhoff said. "There are long hours, and you have to make it a priority to spend time with your family and it's not easy."

That's why here at Altus, they've continued the long standing tradition of assessing the needs of Air Force families and making it a better place to live, work, and play. Lt. Lueckenhoff said you don't need to be married and have children to be considered family; the Year of the Air Force Family campaign targets everyone - single and married Airmen, Guard and Reserve Airmen, civilians, spouses, children, extended family members, retirees and community partners.

"The community is especially important," she said. "They play a big part in helping Air Force families feel at home after having to move so often."
There are many upcoming activities Altus AFB has to offer the families in the community. Log onto www.altus.af.mil for current updates.

"You have to make sure you find ways to have the tools," Lt. Lueckenhoff said, "and this is just one way the Military gives them to you - ways to help your family thrive."