NORMAN — Debbie Spearing is a mother with a passion — providing aid and comfort to the families of deployed U.S. soldiers.
With that goal in mind, she spearheaded the 45th Holiday Family Party, which included families of deployed soldiers from four units of the 45th, all of whom are serving the U.S. Army in Afghanistan.
“My sons are deployed, also,” Spearing said. “I have two sons. One is in Bravo Company and one is in HHC, so I wanted to be as supportive as possible for my sons, which meant supporting all of the soldiers.”
Holidays can be particularly painful for families waiting back home while their loved ones serve abroad.
“The purpose of the holiday party is to have fun, but mainly to show them that there are a lot of people who stand behind them and support them, that they’re not alone,” Spearing said.
Soldiers home on leave, their family members and families of those still deployed were served lunch, inspired by motivational speakers and entertained.
After lunch, supervised crafts and games were provided for children. Even Santa made an appearance. Local businesses and individuals donated door prizes for adults and toys for the children.
It was a way to say “thank you,” Spearing said.
Maj. Gen. Myles Deering flew in and spoke words of encouragement and gratitude to the families. Then Jan Sperry Astani, a motivational speaker, talked about tenacity and encouraged families to endure through the long times of waiting.
Spearing said she planned the party with the hope that it would be “emotionally restorative.”
And for that purpose, she also planned a bit of “art therapy” in the form of some creative fun.
Heart to Art owner Jen Holloway guided participants to paint a picture on canvas of an American Flag.
Spearing wanted the painting to be a keepsake, so families could remember that “feel-good moment.”
“I want them to feel empowered,” Spearing said. “It’s a form of art therapy.”
Joy Hampton 366-3539 jhampton@ normantranscript.com
