TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- With an air of celebration, a baby shower event Nov. 17 at Tinker Air Force Base put an emphasis on support for the military family.
Organized by Tinker AFB Family Advocacy and the March of Dimes, a nonprofit focusing on the health of mothers and their babies, 36 expectant mothers who serve or are dependents of military service members were provided food, participated in activities and received gifts.
Col. Kenyon Bell, 72nd Air Base Wing commander, expressed appreciation for the women, recognizing the sacrifices that are made when spouses deploy.
“We want to thank you for what you do … Whether you’re a spouse, active duty, (or) former active duty, you are certainly well-deserving of everything that is presented to you today, and has been presented,” Bell said.
Bell’s wife, Lori Bell, spoke about base resources for parents, focusing on parenting classes, family budgeting assistance and the Key Spouse program at the Airman & Family Readiness Center.
The group participated in a “Price is Right” style game where they wrote down their guess of the cost of common baby items, such as pacifiers, packages of diapers and lotion. The actual prices were revealed and the winner received a new baby stroller.
In another activity, five expectant fathers were blindfolded and tasted baby food, writing down their guess of the flavor.
Diaper cakes, children’s books and other items were awarded throughout the event, and Airmen and base firefighter volunteers helped distribute gifts and take large items to participants’ cars.
Organizers and March of Dimes Executive Director Laurie Applekamp spoke to the group about the organization and resources they provide.
Marlon James, science, technology, engineering and mathematics outreach coordinator for the Air Force Sustainment Center and a board member for the March of Dimes, said the organization wants to “be intentional” about supporting military families.
“A time like this, especially during the holidays and with Airmen deploying, these spouses are expecting mothers and some of them are going to be by themselves,” he said.
Col. Kenyon Bell emphasized the importance of families to Tinker AFB.
“Families are what sustain us. We know and we frequently talk about how we recruit individuals, but we retain families. That’s what this event is all about,” Bell said.