THE FAMILY TEAM APPROACH
The 1 Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (SOAMXS) Ghostrider Family Team
The 1 Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (SOAMXS) Ghostrider Family Team
Situated at the heart of Hurlburt Field, the 1 SOAMXS Key Spouse Program, operating as the Ghostrider Family Team (GFT), passionately champions the well-being of military families across the installation. Through strategic partnerships with leaders and community allies, they employ the Five & Thrive framework to enhance the quality of life for military families, recognizing its direct impact on mission readiness, resilience, recruitment, and retention.
In collaboration with the Hurlburt Field Chapel, the GFT organized the second Annual WIC Day in January, facilitating local county WIC offices on base to streamline enrollment for military families. By bringing these services on base, they eliminated appointment requirements, ensuring families have easier access to crucial benefits.
This year, the GFT joined forces with Freedom Concepts to focus on supporting EFMP families specifically. Introducing adaptive bikes covered by TRICARE ECHO, they addressed the unique needs of children facing challenges such as low muscle tone, neurological delays, and sensory overload. Freedom Concepts set up an area for families to try out the adaptive bikes and learn how to enroll in ECHO, offering invaluable support and resources.
One greatful parent said, "Today was amazing. The smiles on all the kids' faces - feeling so free - & their parents feeling heard and supported was just magical."
The impact of their efforts is evident, with 71 families successfully enrolled in WIC between 2023 and 2024. Moreover, 10 EFMP families were evaluated and fitted for adaptive bikes, with others receiving information on how to enroll in ECHO.
The GFT, exemplifying a community-oriented force, stands as a beacon of the Five & Thrive vision, fostering a culture where all military families can thrive.
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