F E AT U R E support the thousands of families within the wing. “The big thing, and probably why people shy away from the key spouse program, is they think it’s just a social club,” Maldonado says. “These individuals go through specific training, such as what PII (personally identifiable information) is and how to handle sensitive situations. They have a specific and vital role within the wing.” Jill Kuehler, spouse of Senior Master Sgt. Michael Kuehler, 944th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron first sergeant, was one of the three volunteers who helped kick off the 944th’s Key Spouse Program three years ago. “Initially they needed someone, I said sure I’ll do it, and I learned more about it since,” Kuehler says. “It’s a very meaningful program. And I think the more (the program) grows and the more robust it becomes, it’s better for families of the 944th, better for members, and it really helps grow the family participation and atmosphere of support here.” Maldonado wants Reserve citizen airmen to understand the importance of the
key spouse program. “I feel the key spouse program is underutilized in the Reserve, as some believe it’s solely an active-duty program,” she says. “I want people to know more about our program and the resources we can provide them. This is an amazing group of people, and they are passionate about taking care of families.” Kuehler still volunteers her time as a key spouse and enjoys helping her community. “It feels good helping other people,” she says. “I love the involvement of being a key spouse, and I really enjoy giving back and helping other families. This program is about making connections and how the key spouses can facilitate helping in times of need and taking some of the burden off those families.” As with any Air Force program, there are challenges that come with the responsibility of being a key spouse. “Connecting with families is a big challenge given the part-time nature of the Reserve,” Kuehler says. “We’re working to get the word out to families that we exist and there is a valu-
able resource for them.” Kuehler says being a key spouse helps her connect with her husband’s Air Force culture. “The Air Force is a big part of my husband’s life, so participating in that together and staying connected with him is a great reward,” she says. “He speaks another language when he’s talking about Air Force stuff, so the more I’m involved, the more I know the people, and it makes it easier for us to talk about stuff or reference something.” Maldonado and Kuehler are strong advocates for the key spouse program here at Luke and encourage others, male and female spouses, to volunteer and be part of something great. “If anyone is interested in becoming a key spouse, talk to one of us or Jessica and find out what it’s like,” Kuehler says. “It’s pretty awesome.” For more information about the 944th Key Spouse program, contact the 944th FW Airmen & Family Readiness office at 623-856-8324 or jessica.maldonado.7@ us.af.mil.
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