Scott aids in creating better marriages Published Sept. 17, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Amber Kelly-Woodward 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Scott held the first session of their marriage enrichment program Sept. 11 at National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville. "The continued operations tempo and Global War on Terrorism causes relationships, particularly marriages, to be stressed," said Ch. (Col.) Frank Yerkes, 375th Airlift Wing head chaplain. "This is why it became a concern of commanders and first sergeants to find the Holy Grail to strengthen families." The program was held from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. off base and uniform of the day was civilian clothes to create a comfortable mood. Married couples ranging from 20 years of marriage to newlyweds, couples thinking about marriage and even a spouses whose other halves were not able to attend were present. "This was not just for couples in trouble but everybody so we could builder stronger marriages in preparation for when spouses are apart," said Chaplain Yerkes. In the past, efforts to strengthen marriages have been made through weekend retreats and Saturday seminars, which were effective but not as successful due to the busy schedules of today's couples. "Relationship building is simple but hard, like being healthy," said Ch. (Capt.) Dale Marlowe, 375th AW chaplain. "Like dieting, it is simple to say eat less and exercise more, but it is harder to actually do." The marriage enrichment program is currently under testing for Air Mobility Command-wide implementation. The Chapel's goal is to see approximately 25 couples a month and 300 couples in a year. "This is an outstanding opportunity for couples looking for ways to receive counseling to look at their marriage and gain insight," said Chaplain Yerkes. Couples said they were able to learn about their spouse's personality and what they are feeling. Overall their feedback was positive. The program also aided in allowing couples to become familiar with the Chapel staff. The curriculum was developed Ch. (Capt.) Nealy Brown, 375th AW Reserve chaplain. "A Ph.D. in Psychology plus lots of books, research and teaching for years have gone into this work in progress for about a decade," said Chaplain Brown, who is a professor of counseling at Lincoln Christian Seminary. "Marriage is my passion and military marriages are the toughest." The curriculum is divided into three sets: Building a Strong Marriage Team, A Peacekeeping Mission and The Marriage of your Dreams. The first session is based more on education, the second session is a balance of education and interaction and the third one is based more on participation. "The important thing is for couples to take a day off and interact," said Chaplain Marlowe. "They learned that they are not alone in their situation. We learned that couples are longing for an opportunity to strengthen their marriage and relationship." The program is scheduled to occur the second Thursday of every month. Couples interested should contact the Chapel at 256-3303. "All we want to do is take them out there, to connect and give them the tools and resources to build healthier marriages," said Chaplain Yerkes.