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182d Airlift Wing Family Readiness volunteer competes for National Award

  • Published
  • By Major Nancie Margetis
  • 182nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
"In 1991, I made the painless transition from being a military dependent of my father to being a military dependent of my new husband. It has been a great adventure and wonderful life", said Susan Webb, spouse of Ken Webb and mother of Ben and Taylor Webb, all members assigned to the 182d Airlift Wing. She has been nominated for the 2009 Military Spouse of the Year Award--one of the top-ten Air Force spouses to compete for the title. 

Being nominated by her husband Ken, was an honor for Susan, "Ken taking the time to nominate me for this award says a lot about him." "Susan has always been passionate about military life as a spouse, and has truly been the key to my success in my military career through her support," says Ken. He can see her put that same passion into other military family's lives to make theirs a success to. "I'm very blessed to have such a supportive spouse while serving in the military."

Susan volunteers as the President of the 182nd Airlift Wing Family Readiness Group. She was selected as a top candidate based on her impact on community change, volunteerism, personal sacrifice, education, and other spouse related efforts. She has been involved with the unit's Family Readiness Program since 2003. For her, volunteering is simple, "it's all about being available," she says. "You don't have to have a lot of experience or a specific skill to volunteer; sometimes it is just being there for someone else, sharing and providing information."

Not only does she volunteer for the Family Readiness Program here on base, she volunteers as the chairperson for her employer for Easter Seals, the local Chamber of Commerce, local Blue Star Mothers, and the prior Treasurer for the local volunteer Fire Dept. In addition to her volunteerism, Susan works full-time as an officer and branch manager for Bartonville Southside Bank.

She has been determined a valuable asset to the Family Readiness Program. Amy Quimby, Family Readiness Program Coordinator counts on her to get things done. 

"I feel that I can plan and coordinate most events, but Susan is the one who steps up to the plate to make sure the program is executed. Without that leadership from her, our units Family Program may not be at the level it is today," says Ms. Quimby. 

"As a spouse and mother of military members, I've learned to be flexible and realize that the universe doesn't revolve around me. As an American citizen I am blessed beyond measure." says Susan regarding her involvement with the Family Readiness Group. Being a part of Family Readiness helps her feel connected with her spouse and enables his military career and their family life to be successful. 

Voting is open to the public and anyone can vote more than once during open voting. Winners will be chosen through on-line voting at: www.msoy.milspouse.com through Dec. 24. The winner representing each branch will be announced Jan. 22 and voting will continue for the national title through Mar. 4. The national 2009 Military Spouse of the Year will be announced May 7 the week of Military Spouse Appreciation Day at an event in Washington, D.C.