2018 Heroes at Home Central Virginia

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | MILITARYNEWS.COM | 7TH EDITION

HONORING OUR UNSUNG HEROES FOR THEIR STRENGTH, MANY SACRIFICES AND COMMITMENT TO OUR CENTRAL VIRGINIA COMMUNITY.

PRESENTED BY

HONORING OUR UNSUNG HEROES FOR THEIR STRENGTH, MANY SACRIFICES AND COMMITMENT TO OUR HAMPTON ROADS COMMUNITY.

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | MILITARYNEWS.COM | 14TH EDITION

Thank You

To All Our Military Spouses

Mercedes-Benz of Midlothian is proud to honor our military spouses who selflessly serve to make a lasting difference in the lives of service members, military children and their communities.

Mercedes-Benz of Midlothian

A proud sponsor of the 2018 Heroes at Home Awards

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BY NICOLE ALVARADO Think back to your first day of high school. Trepidatious, optimistic, entering a vast, new world at a time when you’re arguably at your most insecure. Everything sortof familiar, but still different and somewhat alien. Even the pace of life just seems—faster.

Becoming a military spouse and entering this world is a lot like that. If you took that, turned it upside down and duplicated it 1,000 times. It’s a very sink-or-swim, survivalist environment. Even if you’ve grown up in a military household, it’s universally agreed that navigating the choppy waters of the military world is difficult. It’s unsettling how easily the stress and isolation can sneak up on you and drag you down.

That’s why once a year, Military Newspapers of Virginia makes an effort to support this community. It’s our way of saying, “We hear you. We see you. We thank you.

You are not alone.” By sharing the success stories here today, we hope to inspire hope and courage among the ranks of current and future military spouses everywhere.

Just like there are many different branches of the military, there are many different ways to serve its community. These local military spouses have been nominated for this prestigious honor for going above and beyond the call of duty to service their families, their communities and their country, and we would like to celebrate the diversity of their experiences.

They come from all walks of life, bringing with them their charitable spirit and gener-

MNV

MILITARY

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ous souls as well as a wealth of knowledge and a sincere desire to help their fellow man.

Some bring professional experience to fulfill niche roles desperately needed in our community, such as Megan Harless, the lead Doula of Stars and Stripes Doulas of Hampton Roads; or North Carolina Navy spouse Daniel Mugan, Jr., who spends his days putting out fires for the Virginia Beach Fire Department and his nights putting out fires at home while his Navy wife is deployed . Others, like Lauren Peterson, bring standout skill sets, like how Lauren’s exceptional time management and organization skills enable her to seamlessly run the USS Mesa Verde FRG “more efficiently than [the nominator] has ever seen an FRG run before.”

Many of them have children. In between taking care of a teenager, a toddler and an infant, Navy husband Josef Vlk still found time this past year to volunteer on various committees and finish (with honors) a fouryear college degree. Teresa Merritt, who raises four children while simultaneously helping others military families as the state family assistance coordinator for the Virginia Army National Guard. And of course you have Wonder Women like Navy wife Vanessa Watts, who is not only a Virginia Beach PTA president, but also an FRG president and Girl Scout leader to boot.

Community service isn’t a prerequisite for the nomination process, but these are the kind of people who quietly orchestrate good deeds in the background with no expectation or design for recognition. Navy wife Allison Mercer is the executive director for Dogs on Deployment, an organiza-

tion that takes care of sailors’ pets while they’re at sea, when she’s not working at the NEX. Angela Sword, Norfolk wife of a chief warrant officer, opens her home to Marines during the holidays and plans events across commands and cities.

Everyone from partners to coworkers nominated the people being honored here today. Julie Swanson was nominated by her friend and neighbor with the phrase: “Strong, resilient, f lexible and kind, Julie handles this lifestyle with such grace.”

Air Force wife Jennifer Leinaar was nominated by a heartfelt plea from her 14-year-old stepdaughter: “Even if she doesn’t win this award, she has already won our hearts and love forever.”

The one thing they all have in common is they are all married not just to service members, but to the service itself. A military marriage or partnership is like an official commitment to a crazy lifestyle in which you are often left swinging from a hope to a prayer over a vast, empty pit of uncertainty.

These men and women aren’t just the backbone of the military community, but of society in general. They are the invisible thread that holds the haphazard patchwork of military life together, both at home and overseas. They fill gaps, fix mistakes, bind together holes that most of us don’t even see.

All of these superstars deserve to be recognized for their exemplary service.

May we extend our humblest expressions of gratitude for everything you do, and use you as a pillar of inspiration in our own everyday lives.

Former active-duty U.S. Navy spouse (and current veteran spouse), Nicole Alvarado is the editor of MilitaryNews.com.

Published by Military Newspapers of Virginia 150 W. Brambleton Ave. Norfolk, VA 23510

Phone: (757) 222-3990 | Fax: (757) 622-6885 | Advertising (757) 222-3990 sales@militarynews.com | militarynews.com The contents of this special section are not necessarily the official views of or endorsed by the U.S. government, the DoD, the DoT or the U.S. Coast Guard. Opinions of contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Military Newspapers of Virginia or The Flagship®. The availability of these newspapers and the appearance of advertising in these publications, including any inserts or supplements, do not constitute endorsement by the federal government, the DoD, the DoT, the U.S. Coast Guard or Military Newspapers of Virginia of products or services advertised. Military Newspapers of Virginia is a private firm in no way connected to the Department of Defense or United States Coast Guard.

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MNV MILITARY SALES MANAGER Pam Bullock MNV EDITOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mike Doyle PHOTOGRAPHER Harry Gerwien EVENT SALES MANAGER Amie Holman ART DIRECTOR Allyson Garner

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Dr. Bingham currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent for Administration, Maintenance, Personnel and Operations for Prince George County Public Schools.

Dr. Bingham graduated from Clemson University in 1981 as a distinguished military graduate and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army. During his time in the military, he had tours of duty at Fort Lewis, Washington; Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Korea and Germany and deployed to Israel during Desert Storm. While in the military, he also completed the requirements for a Master of Arts Degree in Public Administration from Webster University.

He also holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Tarleton State University and earned his Doctor of Philosophy Degree (Ph.D.) in Educational Administration from the University of Texas at Austin.

Dr. Bingham holds certifications in administration and supervision and the superintendency.

As an educator for over 25 years, Dr. Bingham has been employed as an elementary teacher, elementary assistant principal, high school assistant principal, Director of Human Resources and Director of Military Affairs.

Dr. Bingham’s wife, Lieutenant General Gwen Bingham, currently serves as the Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management. They have two adult children.

geico.com | 1-800-MILITARY | Local Office Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2018 GEICO

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Spouse of CPT/O3 Mark Renteria, HHC CASCOM, Fort Lee YEARS AS MILITARY SPOUSE: 12 NUMBER OF DEPLOYMENTS: 3 NUMBER OF PCS MOVES: 5 AREA OF FOCUS FOR 2018: • For the rest of 2018 my focus is my family.

A woman is like a tea bag-you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.”

- Eleanor Roosevelt

LIFE AS A MILITARY SPOUSE:

I married my husband in 2006, a year and half after he came home from his first deployment to Iraq. I remember my mother in law giving me the “Army Officer Wife Handbook”, and telling me that it was important that I read this book. I remember reading it and thinking to myself that there was no way that I would be able to half as great of an Army wife as my mother in law.

FAVORITE (OR MOST INTERESTING) DUTY STATION:

My favorite duty station hands down is Fort Lee, VA. We have been here for almost 6 years. This is our home and so many different life events have happened while we have been here. Life long friendships have been made and I have grown so much in my faith. Fort Lee is where my family became complete!

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY/ WORK/MILITARY LIFE?

four kids would make me slow down my volunteering, but it seems as if I am volunteering more now. I try to help out with my older kids school as often as I can and help with my daughters Girl Scout troop when time permits, but the FRG and Catholic Women of the Chapel (CWOC) keep me plenty busy.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SUPPORT OTHER MILITARY SPOUSES/ FAMILIES?

The 12 years of being a military spouse have made me understand how important we are to each other. It’s not only grand gestures, it’s watching some one’s kids so they can go to the doctor, providing meals after a baby is born or because someone is sick, celebrating a birthday or anniversary, going to watch a play, knowing when to give a hug when one is needed, but isn’t asked, and simply crying with them because life is kicking you in the butt.

VOLUNTEER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS May 2017-Present • HHC CASCOM Family Readiness Group, Fort Lee, VA 23801 • FRG Leader and OPAC for HHC CASCOM • Plans fundraisers throughout the year for HHC CASCOM family social gatherings • Makes quilts and baby beanies for all newborn babies born in HHC CASCOM • Collected Donations for Holiday Helper • Introduced the “Heart of HHC CASCOM AWARD” • Vice-President from October 2015June 2016 January 2013-December 2014 HHC CASCOM Family Readiness Group, Fort Lee, VA 23801 • Served as FRG Leader from in May 2014-Dec 2014 • Created Baby Baskets for all newborn babies in HHC CASCOM

The organizations that I volunteer my time with are child friendly, so where I go, my kids go. I always thought having 6 | Heroes at Home | MAY 2018

Spouse of E7, Matthew Usera, Delta Company, 16th Ordnance Battalion, Fort Lee YEARS AS MILITARY SPOUSE: 10 NUMBER OF DEPLOYMENTS: 2 NUMBER OF PCS MOVES: 5 AREA OF FOCUS FOR 2017: • Improve 16th Delta FRG, continue to help AFTB in any way I can.

We’re all stories, in the end.

Just make it a good one, eh?”

- The Doctor, 11th incarnation, Matt Smith.

Season 5, Episode 13 (The Big Bang)

LIFE AS A MILITARY SPOUSE:

Massage Therapists by trade, worked at Community Bank while in Germany, Volunteer, Stay at home mom to 3-yearold River Song and 14-month-old old Azrael.

FAVORITE (OR MOST INTERESTING) DUTY STATION:

Heidelberg, Germany. Hands down.

We have never felt more at home at any duty station.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING IN A MILITARY FAMILY?

All the places we have gotten to visit and friends we have gotten to meet as a family.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY/ WORK/MILITARY LIFE?

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SUPPORT OTHER MILITARY SPOUSES/ FAMILIES?

I try to support military families by passing along any and all information I have that will better improve their experience at the installation we are stationed.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM BEING A MILITARY SPOUSE?

I have learned your military family is sometimes all you have, even if your blood family is supportive and wonderful.

Words of wisdom to other spouses would be to get involved.

Your duty station is what you make it. And to think ACS first. Seriously—they are amazing!

Having an amazing service member that is a wonderful partner in life and parenting.

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VOLUNTEER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS • FRG volunteer to FRG leader Fort Drum, NY 2015-2017 • FRG leader Fort Lee, VA 2017- present • AFTB Team member / instructor / Volunteer Coordinator 2017 - present • Fort Lee Volunteer coordinator April 2018

Spouse of E8, Leon R Johnson, HHC CASCOM, Fort Lee YEARS AS MILITARY SPOUSE: 7.5 NUMBER OF DEPLOYMENTS: 2 NUMBER OF PCS MOVES: 2 AREA OF FOCUS FOR 2018: • Helping CASCOM HHC FRG to grow and flourish and raising a new baby girl!

I firmly believe that in every situation, no matter how difficult, God extends grace greater than the hardship, and strength and peace of mind that can lead us to a place higher than where we were before.

- Andy Griffith

New M I L ITA RY

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LIFE AS A MILITARY SPOUSE:

I haven’t been a military spouse for my husband’s whole career, so there are some things I am learning in catch-up mode, but that is the best way to describe this life. Each duty station, each unit, each day brings something new to experience, learn, or sometimes deal with. I can honestly say it NEVER gets boring!

FAVORITE (OR MOST INTERESTING) DUTY STATION:

Fort Hood...close to home but not to close, lots of great friends have retired there, and the bluebonnets!

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING IN A MILITARY FAMILY?

No matter where you go in the world, you will probably run into another spouse/family that you have come to know and love at some point in your service. We literally have friends in every corner of the globe...feels good to know you know someone no matter where you go.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY/ WORK/MILITARY LIFE?

I get involved with spouse groups to give myself a chance to meet other spouses and decompress, but I also involve us in activities in the military community as a family.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SUPPORT OTHER MILITARY SPOUSES/ FAMILIES? Serving with the FRG in each unit we have been in has given me a chance to meet a plethora of amazing spouses and countless opportunities to help their families.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM BEING A MILITARY SPOUSE? WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM/ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE NEW MILITARY SPOUSES?

The only thing that is certain is that it is never certain. Do the best you can to not stress...just go with the flow. It will all work out in the end.

United Concordia Congratulates our “Heroes at Home” Proud sponsor of the 2018 Military Spouse Awards

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VOLUNTEER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS • HHC CASCOM FRG - Fund Custodian from May 2017 to present • Memorial Chapel - choir member from September 2017 to present • HHC 115th BSB 1ABCT 1CAV - Funds Custodian from June 2011 to June 2012 • Fox FSC 1-82FA 1ABCT 1CAV - Funds Custodian from June 2012 to April 2015 • Grace Bible Church - nursery volunteer from September 2012 to February 2017 • Calvary Assembly of God - Neighborhood Thanksgiving Dinner Coordinator from 2006 to present

Spouse of CW4 Ryan Hammons, Fort Lee

Since I joined active duty in 1999, she has served with the Family Readiness Group (Leader, Treasurer) at five different duty stations. I have been deployed 4 times and within those times she finished her bachelor’s degree, became a Certified Financial Counselor and raised two kids during those deployment periods. She has worked with the military within the Army Community Service office as a Certified Financial Counselor for over eight years, helping people in all branches of service. Her job titles throughout the years range from Loan Rep., Bankruptcy Counselor, Administrative Assistance to the 19ESC Chief of Staff

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to Financial Counselor. She has also serves as a prominent board member on the Ft Lee Area Spouses’ Club and volunteers as the treasurer for the Ft Lee Boy Scout Troop. I think she deserves to be recognized because she is passionate about her job and all of her volunteering ventures. She also gives 100% in keeping her actual household/family together.

– CW4 Ryan Hammons, husband of Joanie Hammons

Spouse of E7, Christopher Wilton Bailey, HHC CASCOM, Fort Lee YEARS AS MILITARY SPOUSE: 8 NUMBER OF DEPLOYMENTS: 2 NUMBER OF PCS MOVES: 2 AREA OF FOCUS FOR 2018:

• Is to spend time as a family, go do more hiking, continue my health journey, and continue to grow as person learning new things along the way.

Put your big girls pants on and carry on.”

- Unknown

LIFE AS A MILITARY SPOUSE:

It’s tough at times being apart missing special events and memories, but with the hard times comes the enjoyable times. The one’s when you are getting everything ready for your service member’s return home. Seeing the children getting excited, making their signs, and picking out their outfits.

Spending family time and creating the special memories that were missed out while your loved one was deployed. It’s an adventure when it comes time to pack everything and move to a new location.

Who can say they have had the advantage to be able to explore new states and or countries every few years?

FAVORITE (OR MOST INTERESTING) DUTY STATION:

Would have to be Fort Hood Tx because we are from that state. Being surrounded by our family and close childhood/ life long friends. Most of all enjoying the spouse spur rides, kids spur rides and, to be able to go tubing down Texas cool water rivers during the summers as a

family. Being able to get away for the weekend to the family ranch and ride the four-wheeler and enjoy the calm of the country.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING IN A MILITARY FAMILY?

The places you get to explore and culture you get you learn about the lifetime friends you and the children get to make and know. But most of all is the memories you get to crate as a family when you grow together during the challenging times making the easier ones all the more sweeter.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY/ WORK/MILITARY LIFE?

I take it day by day and adjust as needed. Most of all I make sure we spend time together like going on walks or hike to connect as a family and we make sure to always pray together at the table before we eat.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SUPPORT 11 | Heroes at Home | MAY 2018

OTHER MILITARY SPOUSES/ FAMILIES?

I’m always right there, ready to lend a helping hand when one of our military family friends needs it. No matter what it is—from watching their children, to helping find a solution to a problem or just being there for emotional support.

I work along side my FRG to help out and provide events to families in HHC CASCOM.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM BEING A MILITARY SPOUSE?

I have learned that no matter what, you make the best of every situation and if need be adjust, overcome and always have faith.

VOLUNTEER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS • Cav 3/8 Family Readiness Group 2010-2015 Fort Hood TX • HHC CASCOM Family Readiness Group (Position: publisher of events) 2016-2018 • Fort Lee VA Fort Lee Area Spouses Club 2018

Spouse of 1SG/E8 Jonathan Whaley 116th IBCT, Lynchburg, VA YEARS AS MILITARY SPOUSE: 4 NUMBER OF DEPLOYMENTS: 1 NUMBER OF PCS MOVES: 0 AREA OF FOCUS FOR 2018:

• I want to focus on Volunteer recruitment and retention for 2018. In order to make this happen, I intend to to empower and show recognition and appreciation to current volunteers in the Unit. To recruit volunteers for vacant positions, my goal is to be involved- ask the family member what motivates them, lead by example and establish effective communication.

It is the friends we meet along the way, that help us appreciate the journey.”

- Unknown

LIFE AS A MILITARY SPOUSE:

I met my husband in 2012; married in 2014. I never knew so many acronyms existed! I have only endured one deployment, but my husband four. I became very involved in FRG/family programs from day one. We plan family vacations around the training year calendar. I always have a back-up plan to my back-up plan.

We stay up late or rise early to spend a little extra quiet time together. I am my husband’s biggest fan and cheerleader.

FAVORITE (OR MOST INTERESTING) DUTY STATION:

Bedford, Va- this was our duty station during a 10.5 month deployment, as well as my first deployment as a military spouse.

This is a line company and the families of this Unit were just one big family. We supported each other in the most amazing ways.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING IN A MILITARY FAMILY?

Forming life-long friendships and supporting each other is one of the best

things. I never knew that the people I would meet in my 30’s would be the friends I would have for life.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY/ WORK/MILITARY LIFE?

As a mom with a full time marketing/ advertising job, with a college student and a middle schooler and a husband who is traveling often for work, it can be a struggle. I work from home 80% of the time, so that allows more flexibility in the schedule. At 5pm my focus becomes family; sitting together for dinner at least 3 nights a week is very important to me. My emails and text messages to the families happen later in the evenings when I can give them my complete attention. I also fit in time for prayer every day.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SUPPORT OTHER MILITARY SPOUSES/ FAMILIES?

I make sure all the families know that my door is always open and my ears are always ready to listen. From assisting with family care issues including helping seek out aid 12 | Heroes at Home | MAY 2018

if the family is having a financial hardship to providing child care for families in need. My most favorite thing is planning a family day celebration or a family event where everyone can come together and fellowship.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM BEING A MILITARY SPOUSE?

It is important to continue to have your own dreams while supporting your service member. Enjoy where you are and the friendships you will build. Learn your resources and how to reach out to them.

Get involved and volunteer. Take care of yourself- you can’t pour from an empty glass.

VOLUNTEER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS • 116th IBCT, 1st Battalion, Co A FRG Leader • 116th IBCT, 1st Battalion, HHC FRG Leader

Spouse of Colonel Paul R. Fiscus CASCOM, Fort Lee YEARS AS MILITARY SPOUSE: 33 NUMBER OF DEPLOYMENTS: 6 NUMBER OF PCS MOVES: 12 AREA OF FOCUS FOR 2018: • We are coming to the end of our military career (after 35 years) and looking forward to retirement.

Live your life to the fullest.

Take advantage of wherever you are. Just don’t sit around and do nothing” - Unknown

LIFE AS A MILITARY SPOUSE:

I have been part of the military family for almost 50 years. Air Force Brat with my parents, in the Navy for eight years and married to my husband (Army) for 33 years. While in Hawaii we had our twins, Chris and Brittany, and then in New York we had our daughter Rachel. I love meeting new people and helping out in any way I can.

FAVORITE (OR MOST INTERESTING) DUTY STATION:

I loved Bamberg, Germany. We got to travel all over Europe and met many friends. The area is so beautiful.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING IN A MILITARY FAMILY?

The best part is making new friends all over the world and seeing them years later. The camaraderie of people in your unit is very special.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY/ WORK/MILITARY LIFE?

You learn to take each day as it comes and like my dad use to say, “don’t sweat the small stuff”.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SUPPORT OTHER MILITARY SPOUSES/ FAMILIES?

I like to welcome new spouses to activities in the unit. Taking care of new spouses is very important so they get the full impact of being a part of the military.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM BEING A MILITARY SPOUSE? WHAT WORDS OF WISDOM/ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE NEW MILITARY SPOUSES?

Be patient with the military. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and ask for help.

You can count on your friends in the military because they have most likely gone through what you are.

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VOLUNTEER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS • I was involved with the USO since 2006 at Fort Belvoir. I put in over 1000 hours with them and then while at the War College I helped with the ladies from other countries. My husband was at NATO so I worked with families from other countries.

This past year I worked with Santa Helper on Fort Lee, Food pantry in Dinwiddie, FRG at CASCOM. Hosted soldiers and airmen for Thanksgiving dinner at Fort Lee.

Spouse of SFC Oliver Bolin HHC CASCOM, Fort Lee YEARS AS MILITARY SPOUSE: 16 NUMBER OF DEPLOYMENTS: 4 NUMBER OF PCS MOVES: 5 AREA OF FOCUS FOR 2018: • My area of focus for 2018 is my FRG and my PTSA.

about it.”

If you’re going to do something, do it! Don’t stand there talking

- Unknown

LIFE AS A MILITARY SPOUSE:

I met my husband when we were both stationed in Giessen, Germany. After I finished my Army career I began my journey as a spouse. I am the core of our family. I make sure that no matter where my husband’s career has/will take him, our family remains healthy, strong, and ready to support him.

FAVORITE (OR MOST INTERESTING) DUTY STATION:

So far, my favorite duty station has been in Baumholder, Germany. I had the opportunity to travel much of Germany and visit a couple of the surrounding countries. More exciting, my children had the opportunity to go to a German elementary school one day a week through the cultural exchange program that was in place at the time.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING IN A MILITARY FAMILY?

The best part of being in a military family is that we have the ability to adapt to change. We have lived in 2 countries, and all across our United States. We have learned to adapt to many cultures and created many friendships

we would not have had the opportunity to have in a more stationary lifestyle.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY/ WORK/MILITARY LIFE?

I support creating and maintaining a working relationship between the Army and the Families that is built on mutual respect and open communication.

The military IS my life! My job is to create an environment that supports my husband and my children. As a previous soldier myself, I understand the needs of the Army. As a wife and mother, I understand the needs of my family. Bringing the two into balance is not overly difficult because I am very adept at handling change.

VOLUNTEER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SUPPORT OTHER MILITARY SPOUSES/ FAMILIES?

• Lewis Fraiser Middle School Parent Volunteer, Hinesville, GA (2012-2016)

I am a very dedicated supporter of the Family Readiness Group organization.

With my knowledge and background in the Army, I am able to help other wives with less experience learn to accept the military lifestyle and adapt to the changes ahead. I have been heavily volunteering with every FRG I have been assigned to, even taking on the leadership mantle and the Treasurer’s position. Above all,

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• FRG Key Caller and FRG Welcome Committee, Fort Stewart, GA (2012-2016) • Hinesville Animal Shelter volunteer, Hinesville, GA (2012-2016)

• FRG General Volunteer and FRG Welcome Committee Chair, Fort Lee, VA (2016-Present) • Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Vice President, NB Clements Junior High School (2016-2017) • Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) President, NB Clements Junior High School (2017-Present)

Spouse of Major O-4, Michael Duggan Joint Force Headquarters Virginia, Fort Pickett YEARS AS MILITARY SPOUSE: 11 NUMBER OF DEPLOYMENTS: 2 NUMBER OF PCS MOVES: 3 AREA OF FOCUS FOR 2018: • Living more in the moment. It’s so easy to feel that this life is meant to be lived with your focus on the future.

Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

- Arthur Ashe

VOLUNTEER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS LIFE AS A MILITARY SPOUSE:

I’ve been married to my husband Michael for over 11 years now, and I’m incredibly proud to say that he has been serving our country since 1998. Truthfully, there is not one thing in my life that hasn’t been shaped by the military, in some form or another. The men in my life that I looked up to the most growing up (my father, stepfather, and grandfather) have all honorably served our country. The military and that dedication to service is something I’m incredibly proud of to be a part of.

FAVORITE (OR MOST INTERESTING) DUTY STATION:

Fort Belvoir holds a special place in my heart as it was where 3 of my children were born.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING IN A MILITARY FAMILY?

There are so many wonderful things about being in a military family, but I think it all comes down to the opportunity the military provides. The military has given our family so many gifts and has shaped our lives through truly unique circumstances. Even in the hard times, there is good to be found.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY/ WORK/MILITARY LIFE?

Pizza delivery, a shared family calendar, and a sense of humor. In all seriousness, there’s no perfect formula. Each season of life brings unique challenges. Sometimes in life, you have to prioritize what is most important at that moment and be okay with the fact that you can’t always do it all. And that’s okay.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SUPPORT OTHER MILITARY SPOUSES/ FAMILIES?

I am so grateful for the community we are a part of and I’m proud to call Hanover County my home. It was a difficult transition to move to an area without a large military family presence.

While my focus over the past few years has been serving this community we are living in, I’ve come to realize that the military community doesn’t exist only inside the gates of the base. Our community extends through us, into the lives of those we know and serve. And that service begins at home, with your own family.

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• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital/ ALSAC - 2011-present. Public speaking, fundraising, event support, planning, etc.

• Pole Green Elementary - 2016 - present.

PTA helper, room mom, weekly classroom volunteer, special events volunteer.

• Church of the Redeemer 2013- present.

Religious education teacher, children’s liturgy leader, nursery, special events volunteer, Habitat for Humanity women’s build, yard sale • Richmond Animal Care & Control 2017present. Help as needed with animals • Mechanicsville Little League Challenger Program 2017 - present. Special events volunteer, concession stand, fundraising • Hanover High School 2017 - present. Special events, team mom, concession stand, as needed.

• New Horizons for Children 2013-2017 Host family for four sessions.

• Charity Center (Global Children’s Outreach) 2015 - present. Fundraising, special projects (fence build), social media support, orphan outreach

Spouse of SSG/E6 Brett Albertson C Co 229th BEB, Fredricksburg, VA YEARS AS MILITARY SPOUSE: 6 NUMBER OF DEPLOYMENTS: 1 NUMBER OF PCS MOVES: 3 AREA OF FOCUS FOR 2018: • I am having my first child this summer, so my primary focus will obviously be my family! However, I still plan to stay active as the FRG Leader.

Something I STRONGLY believe in is Soldier Care; it is imperative to take good care of Soldiers and their families in order to maintain a resilient military force.

No one can make you feel inferior without your consent” - Eleanor Roosevelt

LIFE AS A MILITARY SPOUSE:

Like many people I know, the military has touched my life in more ways than one. My great-grandfathers and grandfathers served on both sides of my family, and my father served in the Army, then I became the first woman in our family to serve when I joined the Army National Guard. After all that, I then decided to marry my husband and become a military spouse to top it all off!

After serving 6 years, I decided to step out of the Soldier role in order to start a family, but I’m still fairly involved as a civilian.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE FAMILY/ WORK/MILITARY LIFE?

It’s certainly not always easy, and I think it’s important to be honest about that. There are days when I feel like I’m handling everything great, and days when I feel overwhelmed. It happens. I think there are two things that help me most: 1) “Balancing” doesn’t always mean everything is equally balanced all at the same time. Some days I need to focus more on work, and other days I focus more on my family life. I’ve learned

to recognize my needs more effectively and when to either lean in or step back. 2) I try to focus on what I get right, rather than get hung up on what I get wrong. I also know the importance of self-care and having a good support system so I don’t try to take everything on myself. As much as I want to do for others, I know that if I don’t take care of myself, I can’t help anyone.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF BEING A MILITARY FAMILY? I’ve always felt it’s made me more adaptable and independent. Growing up with my father in the Army, we moved quite often, so I learned how to make new friends and how to be self-sufficient so I never fell behind in school. Then as an adult, moving fairly often as a military spouse, I’ve had to switch jobs more often than I would have liked, but I adapted quickly and was able to network and make the best out of every situation.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO SUPPORT OTHER MILITARY SPOUSES/ 16 | Heroes at Home | MAY 2018

FAMILIES?

I currently serve as the FRG Leader for my husband’s unit, which essentially allows me to be their go-to person for finding whatever resources they need. I think having a MA in Human Services Counseling has really helped me be more effective in connecting family members with the right resources as quickly as possible. I also just like to make sure they know I’m available to talk, because sometimes military life is stressful and that’s just what people need; they need to know someone else understands what they’re going through. I’ve had Soldiers come to my house for dinner, or stay in my home temporarily while going through a difficult time.

VOLUNTEER SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS • FRG Leader, C Co 229 BEB, August 2017-present

Join us in honoring all of this years nominees for their strengths, their sacriďŹ ces and their commitment to our community.

The Heroes at Home Military finalists and Spouse of the Year were chosen from the nominees below, whose nominations were provided by active duty personnel from all branches of the military, spouse support groups, charitable organizations, friends and family.

Brian Benson | Army

Cara L. Wheeler | National Guard (Res.)

David Moore | Army

Samantha Elizabeth Albertson | Army

Liliana Carew | Army

MJ Boice | Marine Corps

Norma Bailey | Army

Genesis Larson | Navy

RaiLynn Bolin | Army

Juan Claudio | Army

Jessica Johnson | Army

Heather bordash | Army

Nancy Fiscus | Army

Crystal Whaley | National Guard (Res.)

Stephanie Renteria | Army

Myesha Bruce | Army

MR. Kelly Hatwig | Navy

Danica A. Henrich | National Guard (Res.)

Michael Moran | Navy

Catherine McNear | Army

Stephanie Renteria | Army

Joanie Hammons | Army

Katharine Duggan | National Guard (Res.)

Wisteria Usera | Army

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