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Military Family Week Up Next

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Vicki Johnson
  • 43rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  It has long been said that the family is the backbone of every military member serving today. Without the support and sacrifices of moms, dads, spouses and children, Airmen serving today would not be nearly as effective.

Team Pope has an entire week of activities lined up for Military Appreciation Week Nov. 13-17 to show appreciation for the support received day in and day out from our families.
"As members of the military we depend on our families for strength and support as we continue to defend our country at home and abroad," Chief Master Sgt. Herb
Hanson, 43rd Airlift Wing command chief. "This is only possible because our families are willing to endure the sacrifices asked of military family members."

Each year, the President of the United States makes a national declaration to acknowledge the families of servicemembers.

"At this crucial hour in the history of freedom, our Nation is grateful for the sacrifice of our military families who love and support the men and women of our Armed Forces," said President George W. Bush. "During National Family Week and throughout the year, Americans stand solidly behind the men and women of our Armed Forces and join all military families as they pray for the safety and strength of their sons and daughters, husbands and wives, and fathers and mothers."

Team Pope formally celebrates the sacrifices and support of the military family with events throughout the week.
Tuesday: Family Fair at the Community Center- 5 to 8 p.m., free for all. There's something for everyone, including clowns, crafts, karaoke, free food, games and more. The events will begin with the announcement of the award winners of the "My Military Family" art contest held earlier this month. Also, meet some of your favorite Fayetteville Fireantz hockey players for autographs and photos.

Wednesday: DUI Simulator Experiences for ages 13 to 18 will be set up at PAX Shed #3 from 5 to 8 p.m. Also, have dinner with your family at NYPD from 5 to 8 p.m.

Thursday: Family Open House at the "New" Maintenance Hangar-5 to 8 p.m. Free family photos, flight line rides, static displays and much more.

Friday: Family Bowling from 1 to 5 p.m. at the bowling alley

The military has received a significant jump in recognition from the American public since the 9/11 terrorists attacks. In addition to the servicemembers serving on active-duty, Guard and Reserve branches of the military, the men, women and children who make of the family support system of them are applauded for their efforts, too.

Military Family Week began about 20 years ago as part of The Great American Family project. Then in 1996, the Armed Services YMCA expanded the week, which occurred around Thanksgiving, into Military Family Month, which began Nov. 1.

"It is our spouses who are called upon to keep the household running while we are deployed or on remote tours; it is our children who must change schools and leave friends every couple of years; it is our parents who must adjust to long periods of time between visits from their children and grandchildren," said Chief Hanson. "It's a tough life for our families, but the benefits are intangible -- a life of service to our United States."