KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The 58th Special Operations Wing recently hosted Spouse Appreciation Day, an annual tradition for the wing and its partner unit, the 150th Fighter Wing, to thank the loved ones who serve alongside the uniformed service member.

"This is our opportunity to say thank you for the sacrifices our spouses and families make," said Master Sgt. Dontrell Wiggins, 71st Special Operations Squadron operations superintendent. "We can get so wrapped up in our responsibilities at work. It's important to remember that no matter what we're going through in uniform, our families are here going through it with us."

Wiggins, who chaired the planning committee for the event, said it was a great opportunity for service members to demonstrate the job to their loved ones.

"Spouse Appreciation Day is our chance to show our families a little bit of what we do, and let them know we haven't forgotten them in this fight," he said. "We appreciate everything they're doing to keep the home fires burning and this event is a small token of our appreciation to them and their committed service as well."

The "great American picnic" provided an excellent opportunity to appreciate the military families with a barbecue lunch from Powdrell's, booths from community supporters, games for the kids, and aircraft displays.

Among those who enjoyed the day were Tech. Sgt. Lucas Stabe, his wife, Marie, and their three young daughters, Kirsten, Haylie, and Catherine.

Although Stabe said he thought the snow cones were the highlight for his children, when asked their favorite part of the day, the three girls said, "Seeing the Osprey and getting to see where Daddy comes to work every day."

Organizers said the event was a huge success, with more than 500 people in attendance.

"I think everyone can agree the 58th SOW Spouse Appreciation Day was an enjoyable event for the whole family, and a tradition the wing hopes to continue well into the future," Wiggins said.