Military Spouse of the Year
Those who are keeping the home fires burning for their spouses who are serving overseas will tell you: it's a tough job. The first lady recently launched a campaign for military families, and on May 6, 2011 we celebrate Military Spouses Day.
Named 2010 Military Spouse of the Year, Lori Bell, started an online organization to help military spouses and families find support and resources. She and her husband both served the same military branch, and are stationed at a northern base with their two children.
This nominee for 2011 Military Spouse of the Year spends most of her time with volunteer work. Her husband serves in this military branch, and they are stationed here with their three children.
Knowing what it's like to be stationed overseas, this 2011 Military Spouse of the Year nominee created an online company that sells baby products and specializes in delivery to military bases. Her husband serves in this military branch, and they are stationed here with their two children.
A 23-year military spouse, this 2011 Military Spouse of the Year nominee has served on a respected support team for 12 years. Her husband serves in this military branch, and they are stationed here.
The first-ever male nominee for Military Spouse of the Year he is one of the men that makes up only 7% of military spouses. He lends support to other spouses when his wife is deployed. His wife serves in this military branch, and they are stationed here with their son.
Crystal Cavalier
This self-described military brat and 2011 Military Spouse of the Year nominee saw her husband through some dark days and used what she learned to reach out to military families dealing with post-traumatic stress. Her husband serves in this military branch, and they are stationed here with their three children.
A mother of four who struggled in her role as a military spouse, Wendy wrote a book to help other military families with their unique situation.
The possibility of tragedy is a reality for military spouses and families. When Bonnie Carroll lost her husband in 1992, she channeled her personal grief into a program to help other spouses and families. Honored with this award in 2009, Bonnie continues to advocate for military families.
A new TV show is putting a heartwarming touch on military spouse and family reunions. Soldier Allen Hughes was recently featured surprising his family at his daughter's music concert. They had thought he was on a ship.
In October 2010, military spouse Tonya Riley got an amazing gift, aided by a pro ball team. Her soldier husband surprised her and her three boys on a very special day.
What's that famous saying about lemons? Soldier Phil Packer was told he would never walk again, and then completed the London Marathon. His military spouse awaited him at the finish line with throngs of well-wishers.
