Fort Bragg spouses get a taste of soldier life

Efram Ramirez

Military spouses certainly face plenty of stress of their own, but they got a taste of what their loved ones experience while serving thanks to the recent "Soldier for a Day" event at Fort Bragg.

The day is not for the weak in body or spirit. Spouses who sign up for the events understand they will be getting dirty, sweaty and working hard. About 40 spouses were divided into six platoons for activities such as crafts and return and physical training exercises such as obstacle courses and engagement skills training.

"It's great to get a feeling of what it's like to be on their side," said Emily Damboise, wife of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Dan Damboise, a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Brigade Combat Team.

Some spouses found the exercises humbling, while others appreciated the way the trainers adjusted them to the spouses' needs. Jennie Castle, whose husband serves in the 3rd Squadron, 73rd Cavalry, said the day's events helped her put her husband's hard work into perspective.

"I think it's honorable that he [serves], and he's a good soldier," she said. "This helps me appreciate when he comes home after a rough day."

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