Social event for new military spouses Published Aug. 4, 2015 By Senior Airman Eboni Reece 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The military lifestyle is a culture with its own values, beliefs, and even lingo. It takes months, sometimes years, to understand this way of life and to feel comfortable within it. As a service member at a new military base, working alongside those who may have been in the military years or decades longer, it may be easy to find someone to ask questions or to help you get acquainted. For spouses, referred to as “the force behind the force” by President Barack Obama on National Military Spouse Appreciation Day, becoming familiar with the military lifestyle and resources accessible to them may not be as easy. Emily Distad, Community Program Peer Network coordinator, figured this out a few years ago when she stepped on to Cannon Air Force Base for the first time. “I have been at Cannon for three years,” said Distad. “But when I came to Cannon with my husband, it was my first time being away from my family, living on a military installation or even being in this region of the country.” Being in an unfamiliar place and fear of the unknown can cause some to be apprehensive about putting themselves out there or getting involved. “Everything was a huge shock to me and I found it really easy to isolate,” said Distad. “I just stayed inside and did not want to participate in a lot of events. I didn’t know what was out there or what my resources were.” The memories of her initial experience led to the development of the New Military Spouse Resiliency Social that caters to military spouses who may be in a similar situation. Also serving as a Preservation of the Force and Family initiative, this event will consist of discussions regarding first time deployment stress, understanding resources, and a question and answer segment with a panel of experienced military spouses. Many spouses may not be necessarily new to this lifestyle, but have never experienced a deployment and would naturally have questions regarding that, said Distad. If a spouse feels they could benefit from any of the information that will be given at the event, they are encouraged to attend. “I wanted to give spouses an opportunity to come together in a relaxed environment, and not feel intimidated or discouraged from asking questions,” said Distad. “They can ask whatever questions they want and not feel like they’re being judged.” This event is scheduled to take place Thursday, August 6 at the Base Chapel from 1:30 p.m. until 3 p.m. Childcare will also be provided for those who wish to attend. To register or obtain more information about this event, please contact Emily Distad at 575-825-1412.