Chapel and A&FRC host deployed family dinner

Families prepare food plates during a deployed families’ dinner at the chapel, Hurlburt Field, Fla., Feb. 11, 2016. The Hurlburt Field Chapel, in collaboration with the Airman & Family Readiness center, hosted the event to allow families of deployed members an opportunity to relax, socialize and interact with one another. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jeff Parkinson)

Chapel and A&FRC host deployed family dinner

Families receive a free dinner during a deployed families’ dinner at the chapel, Hurlburt Field, Fla., Feb. 11, 2016. The deployed families’ dinner offers an environment for spouses to share knowledge, advice and support while their loved ones are deployed. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jeff Parkinson)

Chapel and A&FRC host deployed family dinner

Published Feb. 19, 2016
By Senior Airman Jeff Parkinson
1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- The Hurlburt Field Chapel staff, in collaboration with the Airman and Family Readiness Center, hosted a deployed families’ dinner at the chapel, Feb. 11, 2016, here.

The quarterly event is held to allow families of deployed members a chance to relax, socialize and enjoy a free meal.

“One of the biggest issues with deployment is losing a vital part of your family for many months,” said Chaplain (Capt.) Doug Lumpkin with the 1st Special Operations Wing chaplain’s office. “This kind of event tells the family members at home that they are not alone, and we understand that they are making a sacrifice.”

The dinner is a great opportunity for all deployed families to interact, share stories and support each other.

“I have been through a lot of deployments,” said Collin Burkott, whose spouse has been deployed seven times. “I started thinking about other spouses who may be going through this for the first time, and I thought if I came I could share some knowledge, advice and support.”

For others, this experience is all too new, and they are looking for help and support throughout their spouses’ deployment.

“This is my first deployment experience, and it has been a blessing to have support and know what it’s like from veterans – I’m glad I came,” said Bailey Covieo. “I am by myself, and I know if I didn’t come and get myself involved, this experience would be really difficult.”

Anyone looking for more information on available programs such as the deployed family dinner can contact their unit’s Key Spouse, the A&FRC or the base chapel.