WASHINGTON - Alicia Hinds Ward, wife of Tech. Sgt. Edwinston Ward, 113th Wing Logistics Readiness Squadron, Joint Base Andrews, Md., is the winner of the 2013 Military Spouse of the Year.
Representing the National Guard, Hinds Ward was chosen among six finalists, each one representing a branch of the U.S. armed forces. She was chosen as MSOY for her outstanding support helping military families with relocation and employment services, as well as her support of special needs resources and helping to build camaraderie among deployed members and their families.
"This ceremony does a great deal to see the significance of the role our spouses play in our military and now important that is to our national defense," said Lt. Gen. Stanley Clark, director of the Air National Guard, "It's an honor to be here and congratulate Alicia on her win."
The MSOY award has been in existence for six years and Hines Ward is the first National Guard representative to win.
According to Chief Master Sgt. Ronald Anderson, 113th Wing command chief, her win was no surprise.
"It is no surprise to those that know Alicia that she was selected as the 2013 Military Spouse of the Year. She works tirelessly not only for our Capital Guardian family, but our extended military family across Joint Base Andrews," said Chief Anderson. "I am incredibly proud of what Alicia has accomplished for the families of our National Guard and can't wait to watch her elevate the entire military spouse community. I know she will serve as a phenomenal advocate for all of our military families!"
Hines Ward was filled with emotions after accepting her award as the magnitude of her win started to set in.
"I'm breathing now, not well, but I'm breathing," Hines Ward said laughingly. "I'm so proud to be here and I love the fact that I'm able to work with all of you (fellow spouses), and I hope to bring attention to our National Guard families, our unique circumstances, and the plight of our families."