Still time to register for Heart Link spouse orientation Published Jan. 5, 2011 By Senior Airman Erica Picariello 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- The Air Force Aid Society is sponsoring a spouse orientation program called Heart Link from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Jan. 6, at the Consolidated Club here. The orientation is free and spouses will have a chance to meet one another and win prizes. Heart Link is a program meant to help new military spouses develop a support network and become more comfortable in a new and often strange setting of the military environment. "Going from the civilian sector to the military can be an intimidating transition," said LeAnn Throlson, Incirlik community readiness consultant. "Heart Link helps the spouse become more familiar with military customs, courtesies, rank, traditions, benefits and entitlements, as well as what resources are available to them on base." In addition to learning what the military has to offer them, the crash course in "military" is designed to improve spousal relationships. "It improves communication between the member and spouse, since the spouse will be informed about acronyms and Air Force culture," said Ms. Throlson. This dynamic program also explains to spouses their critical role in the Air Force family. "Most new Air Force spouses come into Heart Link not knowing where they fit into the Air Force mission," Ms. Throlson said. "They just think that they're on the outside looking in. It's our job to show them that they're much more than that." Spouses learn their intricate role in the mission through knowledge and networking. "Heart Link explains to spouses the helping resources available to them as well as bringing them together with other spouses, expanding camaraderie while enhancing communication and knowledge," said Ms. Throlson. According to feedback from attendees of a recent Heart Link class here, every military spouse should attend, because everyone learns something new, no matter how many years the member has been associated with the military. Spouses must register for the orientation beforehand. To register call 676-6755. Contributed information by Senior Airman Sara Csurilla.