New spouses learn military life through Heart Link program Published April 3, 2009 By Airman and Family Readiness Center TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., -- Are you a military spouse who has been "married" to the military for five years or less? Does your spouse use strange acronyms you don't understand? When they are in uniform and with a group of other military members do they stand up when specific people walk into a room? Why do they salute a car or stop when the national anthem is played at the end of the day? If you find the military way of life confusing, plan to attend Heart Link April 25. It's a fun filled day of activities that teaches you why your spouse acts the way they do while in uniform. Activities cover a variety of topics: "You and the Air Force -- Where You Fit In," "Introduction to the Air Force Family" and "Communicating Within the Air Force" to name a few. Spouses also learn that they are the heart of the Air Force and play a vital role in decisions their spouses make concerning re-enlisting. The goal of Heart Link is to strengthen military families through knowledge about military programs, agencies and the mission. This enhances overall mission readiness," said Rickie Smith, Tinker Airman and Family Readiness Center director. The day kicks off at 9 a.m. with an ice breaker game of bingo. This gets the spouses up and out of their seats talking right away. Shortly after the ice breaker, Col. Allen Jamerson, 72nd Air Base Wing and Tinker installation commander, provides an overview of the broad mission at Tinker. For many of the spouses, this is their first opportunity to see and really understand the importance of Tinker Air Force Base. The commander also takes time to answer any questions that spouses may have. The Airman and Family Readiness Center provides both breakfast and lunch. Lunchtime offers attendees the opportunity to share experiences and to continue to learn more about their roles as a military spouse. This is a time when spouses can share contact information and start making those "lasting friendships." Tinker's Heart Link program also incorporates the "Tough Talk" video, which addresses the issue of death or critical injury within a family. As the day comes to an end, each participant is presented a graduation certificate and coin by the 72nd ABW commander, who reminds the group of their vital importance to the mission. "Heart Link is typically held quarterly on Tuesdays, and we offer one Saturday program per year for those spouses who work outside the home," said Mr. Smith. "Child care is provided for those who need it for a Tuesday session with prior arrangements." To register to attend Heart Link on April 25, call the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 739-2747.