TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Air Force has recently standardized the name for the Key Spouse Program. 

Originally known as the Phoenix Spouse Program which was implemented by Air Mobility Command in 2006, the name change to the Key Spouse Program was initiated for consistent name recognition and branding across the Air Force, thus ensuring families are aware of the program and know for what the program stands. 

In Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet," one of the famous quotes is, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet." In other words, what matters is what something is, not what it is called. The Key Spouse program promotes individual, family and unit readiness. The Key Spouse works closely with the commander, commanders spouse, first sergeant and the Airman and Family Readiness Center. 

The Key Spouse ensures continuous contact is made to spouses and their families and meets the vital need for an informal contact in the squadron that can inform, refer and provide continuous information and resources to the spouses. This peer-to-peer (wingman) support system is great for identifying and resolving issues at the lowest level through outreach to family members within their units. The Key Spouses also keep families connected and informed, especially during deployments and remote assignments. 

Spouses interested in the Key Spouse program should contact their squadrons first sergeant. Key Spouses are volunteers appointed by unit commanders and are trained by the Airman and Family Readiness Center. The next training date for Key Spouses is scheduled for June 13. 

To reserve a seat call the AFRC at 424-2486.