DVDS – News – Heart Link: Education and Communication

Ramstein Air Base, Germany – The Heart Link course was hosted by the Center for Military and Family Readiness for the second time this year, April 4, 2023, at Ramstein Air Base, Germany.

Heart Link is a spouse orientation program hosted at bases across the Air Force to educate couples who may be new to the Air Force or need more information about the assistance agencies available at their base.

When attending Ramstein’s Heart Link, couples are introduced to each other and connected with representatives from multiple aid agencies, explains Alicia D. McClelland, 86th Force Support Squadron, Community Preparedness Advisor at the Military and Family Preparedness Center.

“My favorite thing about Heart Link is the links that were made,” said McClelland. “For some of the attendees, this is their first time away from home or their first time abroad.”

With a focus on resources and community, the class is hosted quarterly by M&FRC members and supporting agencies to help military spouses familiarize themselves with available resources.

“The real intent behind Heart Link is to connect couples with each other and let them know that they are not alone,” said McClelland.

Attendees were introduced to the programs available at M&FRC in addition to discussions with members of the Finance, Staff Sergeant and Chaplains during class.

“We want all couples and family members to know that we are here for them,” explained the US Air Force sergeant. Tiffany White, Staff Sergeant, 76th Airlift Squadron. “Just putting a face to the name of the Staff Sergeant in your unit is important. Making sure you know the Staff Sergeant helps encourage people to reach out if they need help and understand that we are here for them.”

The one-day course ends with couples attending a resource fair to gain additional information on specific resources of interest to them.

“Attending Heart Link has helped me learn more than any website or brochure has taught me,” said Kayla Bosquet, the 691st Cyber ​​Operations Squadron’s military spouse. “Everyone was so friendly and answered all my questions. It was so much fun. I got to know the people who are here for me and in my corner.”

The next Heart Link event is scheduled for August 29, 2023. To sign up or get additional information, call DSN: 480-51100 or CIV: 06371-47-5100. Registration must be done one week prior to the class date.

*Editor’s note: This is two of four in a series on resources provided by the Military and Family Readiness Center at Ramstein Air Base, Germany.