Photo By 2nd Lt. Andrew Taller | Hollie Carr, 576th Flight Test Squadron Key Support Liaison (left) and Maj. Tyler...... read more read more
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VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Mission readiness in the military is often viewed through the lens of training, equipment, and strategic planning. However, a crucial yet sometimes overlooked component of a servicemember's readiness begins at home—with the support of their family.
Hollie Carr, Key Support Liaison for the 576th Flight Test Squadron and spouse of Maj. Tyler Carr, 576th FLTS assistant director of operations, has dedicated herself to enhancing servicemember and family readiness. Her efforts have earned her the Air Force Global Strike Command's nomination for the 2025 Joan Orr Air Force Spouse of the Year.
The Joan Orr Award celebrates the exceptional contributions of non-military spouses of Air Force members, honoring the legacy of Joan Orr, spouse of Verne Orr, the 14th Secretary of the Air Force.
As a volunteer in the Commander’s Key Support Liaison program, Hollie strengthens the 576th FLTS’s readiness and resiliency through educating newcomers on important base resources and announcements, volunteering as an emergency contact for families and their children, and providing support to families of Airmen while they are away from home during temporary duties.
“I have always been drawn toward helping others and making sure people feel appreciated,” said Hollie, a Montana native. “My goal has always been to strengthen the 576th FLTS by taking care of families and allowing Airmen to focus on their very important mission.”
The 576th FLTS, a mission partner at Vandenberg SFB, is instrumental in testing and evaluating the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) system. As part of the 377th Test and Evaluation Group, a VSFB based component of the 377th Air Base Wing, the squadron ensures the reliability, accuracy, and effectiveness of this critical component of the United States' nuclear deterrent strategy. Annually, Air Force Global Strike Command conducts three test launches from Vandenberg's Western Range, underscoring the squadron's pivotal role in national security.
"This mission is unique, high stress, and often requires extended travel time away from home,” said Lt. Col. Anthony Santino, 576th FLTS commander. “Mrs. Carr plays a critical role in fostering the warrior ethos because Airmen know their families at home are cared for and supported, enabling our warfighters to focus on improving readiness, sharpening tactics, and increasing lethality.”
According to Santino, Hollie’s efforts through the Key Support Liaison program are a testament to AFGSC Striker Airmen values -- Discipline, Excellence, and Pride -- in the 576th FLTS and 377th TEG at VSFB.
“During my time as a KSL, my primary focus has been to build resilience for families, spouses, and Airmen,” Hollie said. “I aimed to achieve this by organizing opportunities and events for Airmen and their families, as well as providing valuable resources to support their needs.”
Hollie helps organize two to three squadron connection events per quarter, facilitating an environment where servicemembers and their families are cared for and prepared to accomplish their mission.
In 2024, Hollie was instrumental in executing the 576th FLTS’s TOP DOG event, an annual outreach and connection opportunity that brought together the squadron’s Airmen and family members to donate 1,000+ pounds of pet food, pet toys, and cleaning supplies to local animal shelters. The event also broadened knowledge on pet adoption opportunities.
“Mrs. Carr goes above and beyond by ensuring she has the most up-to-date information and resources to give to the family members of her squadron,” said Renee Olivas, Vandenberg SFB’s Military and Family Readiness Center Key Support program coordinator. “Her efforts have clearly made a difference, and I know she will continue to do great things.”
The Commander's Key Support Liaison program, open to Airmen, Guardians, federal employees, and family members, enhances readiness and community across the Department of the Air Force. As an official Unit Family Readiness initiative, it strengthens support networks for all participants.
Hollie will now compete for the Joan Orr Award at the Air Force level.
For more information on the Key Support Liaison program, please contact the Vandenberg SFB Military and Family Readiness Center at renee.olivas.1@spaceforce.mil or via phone at 805-606-0039.
| Date Taken: | 04.01.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 04.01.2025 13:53 |
| Story ID: | 494268 |
| Location: | VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 83 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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