Heart Link program shows spouses they're at heart of Air Force mission Published Jan. 24, 2014 By Holly Logan-Arrington Robins Public Affairs ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Heart Link program shows spouses they're at heart of Air Force mission The Air Force is known for taking care of its own - military spouses included. Heart Link, a military spouse orientation program, was developed by a working group in the Air Combat Command in 1999 to help increase spouse awareness of the mission, customs, traditions, protocol, and support resources and services available to them. In February 2002, the Air Force Community Action Information Board determined a need for a standardized spouse orientation program for new military spouses. Subsequently, Air Force leadership established policy governing basic standardization of a spouse orientation program with implementation at Air Force bases. The first 2014 Heart Link quarterly meeting will be conducted Feb. 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., in Bldg. 794. Julie Thompson, a community readiness consultant at the Airman & Family Readiness Center, said the Air Force Aid Society-sponsored program explains that spouses are a critical part of the Air Force (military) team - the heart of the team. "They play a central role in the health and well-being of their family, as well as, the military sponsor," she said. "They are the link during deployments and separations. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the military lifestyle and share their unique experiences with other spouses, key spouses and mentor spouses in a fun and interactive way." To register for the upcoming Heart Link, spouses may contact the Airman & Family Readiness Center at 478-926-1256. Childcare may be available through Robins Air Force Base family day care providers. For more information, contact Shirletta Murray at 478-926-6741 to make reservations.