Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, N.C. -- Nearly 30 spouses of Marines and sailors from 8th Communications Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, came together to take part in the battalion’s Jayne Wayne Day aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune N.C., May 18, 2011.
“Jayne Wayne Day is where we hold events that show what Marines do on a daily basis so the spouses can learn what their husbands do,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Tammie M. Washington, the network operations and systems officer with 8th Communication Bn.
The event had a variety of activities such as classes on Marine Corps weapons, Communication equipment and the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program. There was even a Combat Fitness Test where spouses gained firsthand experience in the grueling test of physical endurance and strength required by their loved ones.
“We want to be able to explain to the spouses what their husbands do on a daily basis. We’re trying to explain things so they can have a better understanding of their husbands’ work life and in turn, better relate with them,” said Susan Hayes, family readiness officer with 8th Comm Bn.
To ensure the spouses got the most realistic view into their husbands’ Marine Corps experience, the spouses learned how to handle and fire a variety of the weapons used by Marines at the Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer. Following the simulator, the spouses took part in a MCMAP presentation and class where they partnered up to learn several different techniques that they could use, should the need arise.
“The Jayne Wayne Day allows the spouses to meet each other and make connections with other wives who are dealing with many of the same struggles while their husbands are deployed,” said Washington.