NORFOLK, Va. — Second Lady Karen Pence made a stop at Naval Station Norfolk on Wednesday.
In her remarks to military spouses, Karen Pence recognized the sacrifices made by them. She said they are the backbone of the U.S. military and contribute directly to our military readiness.
Navy spouse Samantha said she appreciated Pence's visit and explained she is raising four children while her husband is deployed.
"You have to be the mechanic, the plumber in the house, you have to make all the meals," said Samantha.
Some of the challenges encountered by military spouses include frequent moves, job changes and at times, serving as a single parent while a significant other is on deployment.
Pence and the United Service Orgnaizations (USO) distributed 500 care packages as a way to thank spouses for their service.
"Even though military spouses and their kids didn’t sign on that dotted line, bottom line is they have to serve too," said USO President and CEO Paula Moran. "Because they have to keep the home fires burning"
During her visit, Pence announced different initiatives to address the 24 percent unemployment rate among military spouses – including free access to LinkedIn Premium as well as reimbursing licensing costs each time a military family moves.
"I’m a nurse so going from one state to the next, it doesn’t always translate easily so licensure is something that, whether you’re a teacher, in healthcare or many other professions, it can take time and money and lots of paperwork," said Navy spouse Becky.
Both men's and women's care packages were available. Female care packages included items like lip bal,, lotion and hair ties. Men's care packages included items like lip balm, body wash and mints.
After her stop at Naval Station Norfolk, Pence will recognize The Comfort Crew for Military Kids for the important role it plays in providing resources to help military children and their families.
The Second Lady will deliver remarks and kick-off a community engagement event with military families, service members, community leaders, and the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce benefitting military children in Hampton Roads.