You struck a nerve when you said, "Seeing these moms and dads out here every weekend has given me an insight I never saw during my time in the Navy. I never realized then the anguish and uncertainty those at home go through."
Living in Myrtle Beach, SC at the time, we actually felt vulnerable when we drove into town with the base decal identifying who we were. Cannot remember one supportive deed a civilian did for anyone I knew, much less me personally, alone with children 5, 12 and 13.
Patriotic displays were only on base on the Fourth of July with fireworks for the community, but no proliferation of flags flying in town or rallies of any kind. We were essentially pariahs.
What was worse, I was teaching in the base school, and only one family of a fellow who had worked with my husband was supportive, having us for Thanksgiving Dinner and helping one time when I was ill.
Finally figured out the wives at school as teachers and secretaries, tec. were afraid that to talk of my status, it would become theirs, receiving orders for their husbands to go - superstition at its worst.
Furthermore, in May before his return in October, 300 of us unaccompanied wives were dumped without ceremony out of quarters - into a resort economy!
I applaud your community assistance for those struggling spouses.....
Anyway, thanks for pinging me! Keep up the great work :)