Support offered to families of deployed service members Published July 1, 2011 By Danny Monahan 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Kirtland Air Force Base, NM -- Families of deployed servicemembers toured Fire Station Number 1 as part of a Hearts Apart event June 24. "Hearts Apart is a support and information network for deployed servicemembers' spouses and families," said Master Sgt. Duncan Mason, Airman and Family Readiness Center Readiness Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge. The Kirtland Air Force Base Airman and Family Readiness Center Hearts Apart organization meets once a month for an activity. "We may go bowling or go to the zoo," said Sergeant Mason. "Each November and December, we host a Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner." Sergeant Mason encourages families to take advantage of what Hearts Apart offers. "We have families on this base who are going through a deployment for the first time and though Hearts Apart they can connect with families who have experience with separations," said Sergeant Mason. Hearts Apart is not solely for Airmen's families, said Sergeant Mason. "We support the families of deployed members from all branches -- they can be from the National Guard, Reserve or active duty," said Sergeant Mason. "Also, families who have servicemembers at a remote assignment or serving a 30-day or more temporary duty assignment are welcome." One Kirtland Air Force Base spouse has been coming to Hearts Apart events since December, when her husband, Capt. Troy Carter, deployed. "This is a great program," said Bethany Carter. "It makes you feel better to know so many other people are in the same situation as you. Plus, there are great activities for the kids." Mrs. Carter offers advice for spouses who may be hesitant about attending Hearts Apart events. "During deployments, you can get a little depressed, but if you come to Hearts Apart, you'll meet others feeling the same as you," said Mrs. Carter. "Coming here is almost like therapy." For more information about Hearts Apart, call Sergeant Mason at 846-0741.