375th CES takes care of deployed members and their families Published July 13, 2016 By Samantha Schaffer 375 Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Deployments separate families and limits communication between them, which can produce an extensive amount of stress and worry. However, the 375th Civil Engineer Squadron leadership team gathered together several base agencies to help ease tension during this difficult time for their families. Angie Chen, who has been in the military 22 years, said this squadron has really taken care of families every time somebody deploys. Chen is the wife of Staff Sgt. Stephen Chen, 375th CES Water Fuels and Maintenance Squadron, who is deploying to Africa for six months. “From before they leave, to checking up on us a month out, we know that any time we need anything, they are there to help us. I feel very lucky knowing that he can go, and I'll have my support team here,” Angie said. Nearly 20 percent of the squadron’s active duty force is being deployed, including the entire leadership team. The squadron is focused on making sure there is a support system in place while they are gone. Amy Bryant, a Key Spouse mentor and wife of Lt. Col. Scott Bryant, 375th CES commander, who is deploying for the sixth time, says it’s important to keep the family dynamic even while her husband is gone. “Even though my husband is thousands of miles away, he is still a parent,” said Bryant. One of the ways Bryant keeps the connection strong between her husband and her children is through a program that allows deploying members to read a book to their child and have the reading recorded. The book and DVD are sent to the child through the mail. The Scott AFB Airman and Family Readiness Center also helps families cope with the transition to life without a loved one by conducting monthly pre-deployment dinners to inform spouses of the many programs available to help them. Chaplain (Capt.) Eli Dowell said, “We look after the families; there are many support options available for spouses and children. There are also activities that provide a personal connection between families going through the same thing. The Key Spouse program is essential to helping families adjust.” The Key Spouse program is made up of volunteers appointed by the squadron commander and is essential for those who wish to stay in touch with deployed family members. They welcome newcomers, stay in touch with deployed individuals, and share resources and information with families. Senior Airman Robert Kacperowski, 375th CES firefighter, is preparing to leave for Jordan on his first deployment and is leaving his mother behind. “It is great knowing that we have all these resources available for our families while we are gone,” Kacperowski said. “My mom worries a lot, but she is updated on the mission whenever possible and it makes her feel better. Communication is key to knowing that they are taken care of back home.” Lt. Col. Bryant said he believes it is important for Airmen to stay goal-oriented during their deployment. “Deployment is part of wearing the uniform,” he said. “For the deployers, I ask that each Airman embrace the deployment as an opportunity to go deeper and make the most of their deployment. “They should represent our squadron with the same level of excellence, dedication and integrity that they demonstrate day in and day out here.”