My support system

This isn’t as hard as I thought it would be. I think I am actually getting the hang of doing this all by myself.

Luckily, I have a great support system of family and friends who are always there when I need them.

As I learned in the Coping with Deployment course a few weeks ago, making connections is one of the most important things families can do while facing a deployment. These connections can come in the form of their family, friends, other spouses, different groups on base, or even local community organizations.

My main support comes from my family. I speak to my mother, who is in Virginia, on a daily basis. I know I can rely on her and my father for anything I need. They often tell me, "If you need me I will be on the road in a split second." I know I can also call my sister, who is also a military wife living at Altus AFB, Okla. My extended family, in-laws and friends are also a big help when I need to reach out to someone.

My other support system is through other military spouses. It is often said the fire station is a squadron within itself. Firefighters take care of other firefighters, and firefighters’ wives take care of other firefighters’ wives. Talking to another military wife helps ease the stress from a military standpoint. They often know what you are dealing with when you have military problems, or even just the daily routine. Firefighters have a unique work schedule, as they work 24-hour shifts. So we often have a common bond that is built when we visit our spouses at work.

Lastly, my co-workers are able to help with my daily stressors. Honestly, they probably feel the biggest brunt of them. No matter what, they see me every day for eight hours. They hear my moans, groans and excitement. However, they never complain and they listen.

For anyone who feels they don’t have a support system, you can always contact your spouses’ first sergeant or squadron. The Airman & Family Readiness Center is also a great source when someone needs a person to talk to. Know that you don’t have to go through things alone. The military is one big family.