SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- The 4th Force Support Squadron Airman and Family Readiness Center held its annual Military Family Appreciation event, Nov. 5 to honor family members of Team Seymour who face unique challenges and stressors associated with military life.
More than 300 Airmen and family members received a free lunch and the opportunity to participate in multiple activities aimed at showing appreciation and providing a fun atmosphere. Various helping agencies such as Military OneSource, Airmen Against Drunk Driving, the Health and Wellness Center and multiple local businesses also had booths set up during the event to educate members on the resources and benefits available to them all year.
“We appreciate the military families all year-round, but November is designated as Military Family Appreciation Month, and we host this event to really show our families we care,” said Debora Jefferson, 4th Force Support Squadron A&FRC community readiness counselor.”
Throughout the four-hour event kids rode horses, had their faces painted, jumped in bouncy houses and met characters dressed as princesses and Sparky, the fire prevention dog from the 4th Civil Engineer Squadron fire department.
“We love these events,” said Jamie Clawson, wife of Senior Master Sgt. Travis Clawson, 51st Civil Engineer Squadron deputy fire chief on a remote unaccompanied tour in Korea. “We’ve been a part of this base now for the last three years, been a part of the Air Force community for 19 years, and we appreciate all of these fun free events that the kids can come hang out, meet princesses and get their faces painted.”
Clawson said her kids enjoy these events, especially when their dad is away, because they look forward to all the fun activities and time with their friends.
“I love that it’s a safe environment for the kids. I love that they provide all the sponsors in town that support the military so much, makes you feel like part of the community,” said Clawson. “It’s definitely important when my husband is away that my kids feel like they have a place to just come and have fun and hang out with other families, as well as myself.”