Thanking all the supermoms who serve

DUKE FIELD, Fla. — Mother’s Day, the second Sunday in May, is when moms across the nation receive greeting cards and a host of other mementos from friends and families expressing love and reverence for the important role they play in the lives of others.

The annual tradition dates back to 1908 when Anna Jarvis, the founder of modern-day Mother’s Day, gave 500 white carnations to her local church in honor of her mother.

White carnations became a symbol of Mother’s Day and served as a private acknowledgment for what mothers do for the family.

As a salute to all the mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, stepmothers, mother-in-laws and foster moms, members of the Air Force will use Sunday, May 8 as an opportunity to reconnect and reaffirm family ties.

The 919th Special Operations Wing said it recognizes the service and importance of Citizen Air Commando moms who serve at home and abroad.

In celebration of the special day, some 919th SOW Airmen were asked to share what it means to them to be a Citizen Airman and a mom.

“To me, being a mom and serving my country in the Air Force Reserve is a privilege and an honor,” said Staff Sgt. Kaydee Goleta, 919th Special Operations Force Support Squadron management lead.

“Mother’s Day is when I take time to reflect on the amazing young people I’ve been given the privilege of helping teach, guide, and love as they grow and learn.”

Goleta worked at the 919th SOW command post and recently transitioned to her new role as the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of the 919th SOFSS. She oversees a variety of tasks and assists customers’ questions and issues related to the growth and movement of the units and personnel within the 919th SOW.

Thinking back to the day you became a mother, any fond memories come to mind that make Mother’s Day special to you?

“So much excitement,” exclaimed Senior Master Sgt. Tanya Kent, 919th Special Operations Maintenance Squadron superintendent. “I was not supposed to be able to get pregnant, so I considered both my children miracle babies.”

Kent manages the analysis, plans and scheduling for the maintenance operations at the wing. While Kent’s military commitment is important to her, she still ensures quality time at home cooking their favorite meals.

How do you and your family celebrate Mother’s Day?

“On Mother’s Day we usually plan an activity that sounds fun to us,” said Senior Master Sgt. Renee Gould, 919th SOFSS sustainment services flight chief.

“We have taken short trips and had virtual video chats when I was away on deployments.”

Gould added now that her son is older he treats her to lunch and brings her flowers.

Gould operates the dining facility on unit training assembly weekends, supports the fit-to-fight program and orchestrates fitness and morale events for the 919th and much more.

Any motherly words of wisdom you like to share?

“Always make sure you take care of yourself,” said Kent.

“If you don’t, you can’t truly be there for your children or family.”

Goleta shared some additional motherly words.

“Take time to appreciate others for who they are instead of who you think they should be,” said Goleta. “You will often be surprised by the difference you can make by reframing your views and looking for the positive qualities in others.”

By Michelle Gigante, 919th Special Operations Wing