Hearts Apart eases family separation

Letters, drawings and cards of every shape and color decorate the office walls of Master Sgt. Richard Gomez, 27th Special Operations Force Support Squadron readiness NCO.

To an outsider, the colorful collage is nothing more than a harmless deviation from the soft tan that dominates the Airman & Family Readiness Center; to Gomez, each carefully formed sentiment represents a husband, wife, son or daughter whose relationships were touched by the Hearts Apart program.

"I am so passionate about this program," Gomez said. "In Air Force Special Operations Command, it is not uncommon for airmen to sit across from me preparing for their eighth, ninth or tenth deployment. The loved ones they leave behind will also face hardships and it's our job at the A&FRC to make sure they don't feel abandoned."

Each month the Hearts Apart program hosts an event for the family members of deployed service members. These events are intended to alleviate some of the stresses caused by family separation and provide an opportunity for individuals to meet others in similar situations.

"In the past we have done everything from arts and crafts for deployed airmen to movie nights at the base theater," Gomez said. "Aug. 11 we are having a pool party at the DZ pool from noon to 2 p.m. Pizza will be provided and we encourage everyone with deployed loved ones to come out and participate."

The Hearts Apart program took on a personal meaning for Gomez when duty called him away from his own wife and daughters.

"Issues arose while I was deployed and my wife felt isolated and alone," he said. "Since I have been charged with spearheading this program, I have made it a point to ensure no one has to feel like they've been forgotten at one of the most vulnerable times in their lives."

"I take my daughters to every Hearts Apart event," he continued. "I think it's important for them to remember that even though they have me here now, there are children who are missing their parents. My wife and I want them to understand how important it can be to talk with someone who's been in a similar situation."

In addition to monthly events, Hearts Apart hosts a quarterly deployed spouse's dinner at the Pecos Trail dining facility on base.

"We invite all our deployed families and encourage them to bring any guests they may have staying with them as well," Gomez said. "If nothing else, they can look at it as an opportunity to dine out without having to worry about going over budget. That's one great thing about our program, we always get the bill."

Whether family members are seeking to meet with people they can relate to, see the smile that has been absent from their child's face or pick up a free bite to eat, the Hearts Apart program is ready, willing and able to accommodate.

"Each family is special to me," Gomez said. "I can't stress enough how important it is to get out of your empty house and break up your monotonous routine every now and then. When I help families to connect, it is truly the most rewarding experience."