Fort Bragg Army Spouses Receive Surprise from Mission Heart Hug

On Saturday, 200 military spouses received shoebox gifts from Support Military Spouses, a support group with Mission Heart Hug.
The deliveries, made in a simple, rented Penske truck, are meant to boost morale and show appreciation to those who bare perhaps a bigger burden than soldiers themselves, the men and women who hold down the fort while the nation’s finest serve abroad.

"It felt really special to be recognized for all the hardships we endure as military spouses. I have been using the items that came in the box, and have especially been enjoying the bath products and reading materials, as that really helps me to relax," Erin, a military spouse, expressed in a thank-you email to Support Military Spouses' co-founder Diane Rumley, according to the group’s website.

Each year, several non-profit groups band together to encourage national support of military wives and husbands. Fort Bragg and Pope Army Air Field are both home to more than 42,000 soldiers, airmen and their families. Deployed military members are usually on the receiving end of care-packages. The movement to send gifts to spouses has been revered by the community.

"I wanted to thank you for my wonderful shoebox gift. Being a military spouse can be very trying at times and the spouse is often overlooked. I really appreciate the time and thought put into these boxes. Thank you!" another military spouse, Teri, said about her shoebox gift.

Individuals or companies interested in volunteering or donating to the organization or their spousal support efforts can do so in various ways. Monetary donations, as well as prepared shoeboxes can be made to Support Military Spouses. All donations are tax deductible.