Team Moody hosted its first Pre-Deployment Symposium, Aug. 12, 2024, providing Airmen and their families resources and familiarization of supporting agencies in preparation for potential deployments.

Over 100 attendees and subject matter experts filled the Capt. Weber room with more than 20 helping agencies showcasing resources and an overview of the services they provide.

“This is an event where families and loved ones of Airmen who are deploying can come in, get answers, and understand the support available to them,” said Col. Paul Sheets, 23rd Wing commander. “Deployments can be exciting at times, but they can also be challenging. We want to ensure that every one of you, and those loved ones staying behind, have the answers and resources they need.”

Moody is a fast-paced, highly deployed base with approximately 5,500 military and civilian personnel serving a critical role in national defense. The Pre-Deployment Symposium brought them and their families together, building resilience capabilities and a sense of community.

“People feel more connected as a community when they feel like they’re a part of something,” said Master Sgt. Bryon Weston, 23rd Force Support Squadron Military and Family Readiness Center readiness non-commissioned officer in charge. “I think the symposium did an excellent job of allowing them to be a part of something they didn’t think they were really a part of.”

Airmen and their families were able to have face-to-face contact with organizations and wingmen who are passionate about being the support network the troops and their close ones require. The personable environment allowed for direct communication about the help and resources that are available to them in a time of need. Team Moody also provided childcare services to maximize participation in the event, emphasizing the importance of support in challenging and potentially stressful times.

“I’ve noticed that it can be really difficult to have that connectedness that a lot of people want in their military community,” said Kristi Donewar, 23rd Wing FSS MFRC Commander’s Key Support Program coordinator, briefer at the event and military spouse. “I think it’s really important that we try to get together as much as possible. There's a lot of power in spouses being able to talk to each other; we all have something we can relate to.”

Expanding knowledge, developing resilience and showing families the available resources strengthens the Moody AFB community while preparing them for long-term separations. To learn more about the resources offered to Airmen and their families, contact the MFRC at 229-257-3333.