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Wounded warriors, families not alone at Fairchild

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Janelle Patiño
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Team Fairchild came together April 4 for the Air Force Wounded, Ill and Injured event at the Red Morgan Center providing Airmen with information and an opportunity to become aware of the levels of support available, as well as for base leaders, wounded warriors and support agencies to network and socialize.

WII was a collaborative event between the Integrated Delivery System and Airmen and Family Readiness Center. Nearly 100 people attended, including Fairchild leaders and wounded warrior Airmen.

"When major life challenges are experienced, many Airmen will process through a grief cycle as their life will be altered by certain traumatic events," said Chris Marble, the A&FRC chief. "Many times throughout the process, they are unsure of their personal, family or professional future. So this event helped by providing them an opportunity to be surrounded by several support agencies, caring people and Air Force leaders who all make a difference."

Robert Snyder, the Recovery Care Coordinator from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., was the event's guest speaker. He discussed what the RCC is all about as well as his duties and responsibilities. Most importantly, he provided opportunities to spend one-on-one time with warriors and their families.

"He made sure to let the WII Airmen know he is always there for them; and the program is always available if they need any help," said Marble. "The RCC is a key individual in the initial recovery process and is managed by Air Force Personnel Center's Air Force Warrior and Survivor Care."

The event was open to Air Force WIIs, other wounded warriors from sister services and their family members. Support agencies, Fairchild commanders, first sergeants and other leaders were also invited.

During the event, several agencies including Disabled American Veterans, Military One Source, the Fairchild Education Center, St. Luke's outpatient therapy, WorkSource, Veterans Affairs Vet Center, Protection K-9, Health and Wellness Center, Family Advocacy, SARC, Mental Health, Recovery Care Coordinator and Education and Employment Initiative set up booths for Airmen to visit and get more information.

"Recovery Care helped me gain resources and avenues so I know that there are outside agencies working in my best interest and providing opportunities," said Airman Brittany Gibson, a wounded warrior. "This event helped me prepare for the transition to the outside world, whether it involves my living situation, family assistance as a wounded warrior, or any type of care I need."

For more information, visit or call the A&FRC at (509) 247-2246.