Memphis hosts regional Yellow Ribbon Program event Published Nov. 24, 2010 By Don Peek Public Affairs DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- Memphis, Tenn., home of Graceland and Beale Street, was the latest site of the regional Yellow Ribbon event held at the Hilton Memphis Nov 19-21. Approximately 200 Reservists, Guardsmen and their dependents were informed, enlightened and entertained by a series of briefings and interactive presentations. The Yellow Ribbon Program was initiated by the Secretary of Defense and was backed by Congress in 2008 and is designed to provide Reservists, Guardsmen and their dependents with information and assistance during all phases of pre- and post-deployments. The event was kicked off with an emotionally-charged "tragedy to triumph" story from keynote speaker David Roever. The audience was both touched and inspired as he spoke of his personal experiences and dealings with disfiguring injuries he sustained as a result of extensive burns he received from a phosphorous grenade exploding in his hand as he was about to throw it. He shared his story about how he had to come to grips with his injuries and how, through love and support from his family, he was able to turn them into a means to assist others who are currently experiencing the same issues surrounding disfiguring injuries. After speaking he wowed the audience with his phenomenal ability to play the piano. His enthusiasm, humorous style and message of encouragement help to set the tone for the remainder of the program. Breakout sessions provided valuable information on various subjects including medical, financial management, communications and dealing with stress. One session titled "Stress Relief Massage Techniques," conducted by Ginger Ellison, highlighted and taught actual massage techniques between partners as an additional means of dealing with day-to-day challenges. She said her goal was to ensure everyone attending her session "felt comfortable, relaxed and warm and that they would come away with an additional means to help cope with the problems facing couples in today's deployment environment." Dependent children were given their own breakout sessions where they took part in activities such as storytelling by children's author Claire Foltz , Spy Game and Deployment Line with Capt. Lori Mann, where kids were given a mission and then able to process through a mock deployment line. The kids also put on a play during lunch on Saturday assisted by Mrs. Foltz. Michele Rubeor , wife of Maj. Gen. James T. Rubeor, 22nd Air Force commander, closed out the event with the senior spouse perspective. She reminded everyone of the importance of taking advantage of the resources available stating "use what is given you and give a heart-felt thanks to the troops for all they do."
