Robins Air Force Base, Ga. -- Spouses and children of Airmen deployed from Robins were recently given the "presidential treatment" as part of a special event sponsored by the Airmen and Family Readiness Center.

The group of about 55 Robins dependents were greeted by former President Carter in Reese Park in Plains, Ga., where the president grew up and still lives today.

"The people here serving in the military, and their families are so important to me and to everyone else and I think even to the rest of the world," President Carter said.

He said he came out to "pay my respects to everyone not only the ones here at home right now, but particularly the ones overseas."

He added his own service as a submarine officer helped him to understand the importance of the Airmen and their families and the sacrifices they make.

For most of the families rubbing shoulders with a president was an unforgettable memory they would cherish for a lifetime.

"It was just so exciting, a very pleasant surprise. I had no idea that was going to be a part of our treats today," said Gail Simon-Boyd, wife of Maj. Aaron Boyd, who serves with the 580th Aircraft Sustainment Group.

"I get bragging rights for seeing former President Carter," said Christopher Fackler, husband of Staff Sgt. Andrea Fackler with the 55 Combat Communications Squadron.

It wasn't just the spouses who were thrilled to meet the president; the younger dependents were equally thrilled with the opportunity to boast about meeting the president.

"I think it's pretty cool because not too many people get to see him," said Gerrick Muse Jr., son of Maj. Gerrick Muse with the 128th Airborne Command and Control Squadron.

Ms. Simon-Boyd and her son, Connor Boyd, 3, were the first family to greet and be photographed with the former president.

The group began their special day in the parking lot of the A&FRC, where they were greeted by a Georgia State patrolman, who escorted the two travel coaches to Cordele.

The group arrived to the SAM Shortline Excursion train depot in Cordele, to a display of yellow ribbons and a welcome sign before boarding the train for a day filled with special treats for the families -- including a free lunch in Americus at the Forsyth Bar and Grill, provided by Dupree Landscaping, and free ice cream in Plains, courtesy of Plain Peanuts.

After learning the meal had been provided by a member of the Middle Georgia community, Angela Hayes was brought to tears.

"It's just the generosity out there. Knowing that people realize what our spouses and our friends that are active duty do and what they do it for," she said.

Many families said the event made them feel like the A&FRC and the Middle Georgia community was ready and willing to take care of them during their loved ones' absences.

"It's good for them (our spouses) too, because we can send them pictures and show them they are taking care of us," said Montoia Combs, wife of Senior Airman William Combs with the 78th Mission Support Squadron.

"I'm probably having more fun than them. I am glad I didn't pass this up," confessed Staff Sgt. Wendell Boone, as he ate ice cream with his two children Trinity, 2, and Tristan, 4.

Sergeant Boone said the train event was one of the best events for spouses of deployed Airmen he has utilized while his wife, Tech. Sgt. Patrika Boone with the 116th Logistics Readiness Squadron, was deployed.

Tim Dupree, with the Peach County Military Affairs Committee, said when he heard about the event he started contacting people he knew in the areas where the train stops in an effort to make the event more memorable.

"I wanted to do something to make it special," Mr. Dupree said. "I want these young people to know how proud America is of their mothers and fathers."

Mr. Dupree was just one member of local military affairs committees who joined the families for the day out.

"I think it's great we were able to do this and bring these families out and show them the appreciation we have for them and the sacrifices they make," said Larry Harper, with the Hawkinsville Military Affairs Committee, who also joined the group.

Tech. Sgt. Mike Bullard, readiness NCO for A&FRC, said the event was a success.

"It started out on a small scale and it grew to something larger than I could have ever imagined, especially the way the local communities responded," he said. "I appreciate the communities opening their doors, stores and hearts to the families of these Airmen."