How important are our spouses and how do they affect mission accomplishment?

Yes Sir and too often they are not recognized appropriately. I feel we as leaders have a responsibility to host some type of spouses day event to honor them. What are your thoughts and what suggestions would you recommend Sir?

SMSgt (Join to see), I've seen spouses receive certificates of appreciation at various ceremonies (promotion and retirement are the two I specifically remember).

The Army has FRGs (Family Readiness Groups) for spouses, especially when the unit is deployed, but also in general. That's where I think some more attention could be paid.

And I guess some sort of spouse appreciation event would be a good idea ... It would be up to the unit, the particular circumstances, etc., but I like that idea as well. I'm thinking tying it in with the FRG might be the way to go.

I too have seen the certificates handed out at retirement ceremonies, but never a promotion ceremony. We also have a Family Readiness section that's assists spouses with issues during deployments. My Commander started a key spouse program in our unit and the spouses get together once a month for different events. Last month they did a self defense class and the month before that they went to a local winery and had brunch and did wine tasting. Currently we have members that are deployed and the key spouses are charged with contacting the spouses of deployed members to ascertain if their needs are being met. I think that it is sad that our spouses go 20 years at a minimum to receive a certificate when we retire though. The military in general should enact a spouses appreciation day. I know that the Army has some sort of family day at most bases and I was wondering if the rest of the military services should benchmark after that idea and expand to include a reward ceremony of sorts.

At the top, the Army has included "Family" in the Comprehensive Soldier and Family Fitness program, so there is command emphasis on the role of the family. (http://csf2.army.mil/)

I agree, though, SMSgt (Join to see), that spouses should be recognized more often than they are.

I agree Sir!

I agree Sir.

Sir, I agree that there are some spouses that "try" to abuse their position as a military spouse and because of their spouses rank they often attempt to flaunt their status. In my experience as a Security Forces member, I have witnessed wives of Officers that feel they deserve to be saluted entering the front gate. It's hard to explain to a spouse that we salute the DD FM 2220 on the vehicle and not the spouse behind the wheel without hurting their feelings. This is one of my favorites, "hello, I am Mrs. Col. Doe." So what you're telling me is that your biggest accomplishment in life was marrying a Col? You have your own identity no need to ride the coat tails of your spouse. So yes Sir, I do understand your view on that point.

That's awesome! She's a keeper for sure!

Who was your Drill Sergeant? And, does your wife have her Drill Sergeant packet ready?

CSM Michael J. Uhlig I can imagine her as the female version of SGT Hartman in Full Metal Jacket if she were a DS.

SMSgt (Join to see) INDEED she is!

Excellent response SFC Merino! I agree a spouse can often make or break a warrior's career.

Yes SMSgt (Join to see), she supported me any way possible, co-leading the FRG, Military spouse, the whole 9 yards. Like with my NCOs, I would have not been successful, if they and she were not successful. She was strong during my deployments so I never had to worry about things with her and the kids back home. Not that I didn't worry, but is was comforting to know she could take care of everything. She had a successful career as a hospital systems administrator that she put aside to have a family, so I will always admire her for that. Now we mutually support and help each other in our careers and raising our children.

That's an awesome ending to a beautiful career! I hope one day my wife and I will be as successful and you and your wife.

Takes a lot of work SMSgt (Join to see), I won't kid you, but it's all worth it. Those "for better or for worse, in sickness and in health" lines have kicked in more times than we could have imagined but we've pulled our way back up every time, sometimes faster than others but we're still going strong, knock on wood!

It's tried and true! That's a great thing!

Sir, I am sure she has been able to assist younger spouses of your soldiers through the years that were enduring the same hardship. That is the blessing of having an experienced spouse that can mentor the inexperienced spouse get through the hard times. Not only did she accept a leadership role, she still had to keep the fire burning at home so to speak. Taking care of children, chores, possibly having a career herself! I commend her on her support Sir! We need more leadership amongst our spouses.

That's a strong statement SSG! I also rely on my wife to take care if the Homefront while I am away. She does a damn fine job of it as well. Without her support, I would not be in the position that I sit today. She has been key to my success.

I think they should have an award made for military spouses....and some should also go to the brig for their actions....hee hee.

Well said!