Key Spouses: Melinda Santiago – 30th FSS

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Robert J. Volio
VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Team Vandenberg honors Key Spouses for their continuous service and dedication to military members and their families.

Q: Where are you from?

A: I am from Seattle, Washington.

Q: How long have you been serving the military as a spouse?

A: I've been serving for 15 years now.

Q: What made you want to be a part of the Key Spouse program?

A: I really wanted to give back. There have often been times in my husband's career where I've had to ask for help. So, this is my way of stepping up, it's my turn to give back.

Q: What is your role in the program?

A: I'm new to the program, so I'm still kind of learning. I mostly work with the commanders and first sergeants to help reach out to families to see if they need anything. I'm here to help if the spouses need anything.

Q: Why is your job important to you?

A: I remember being a younger spouse and sometimes you're intimidated to approach your spouse's leadership with questions or concerns. It's nice to have a familiar face to go to with questions. If I can help out, especially with some of the younger families, it's a great feeling.

Q: Why is the Key Spouse program important?

A: For the [30th Force Support Squadron] commander, it's nice to have a program that takes care of and looks after families on base, which in turn allows her to focus on the mission.

Q: How does it feel to give back to the community on a regular basis?

A: It feels good. The Air Force has been amazing to me and my husband. It's a wonderful feeling being able to help others regularly.

Q: Is there anything else you'd like to add?

A: The Key Spouse program is a great concept. We're here to provide assistance for military members and their families whenever they need it.

 

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