Lincoln, Neb. – Governor Jim Pillen announced Tuesday that Oct. 27 will be officially recognized as National Guard Spouse Appreciation Day. During a ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion, First Lady Suzanne Pillen presented the first Nebraska National Guard Military Spouse Service Ribbon to five deserving spouses.
Honoring the unseen heroes
The ribbon, designed with white for selfless purity, blue for loyalty and vigilance, and crimson red to represent sacrifice, will be awarded to eligible spouses at the time of their partner’s retirement. The inaugural recipients were Michelle Haugland, Stacie Koehler, Shellie Mueller, Angie Ropers, and Jeanne Varejcka.
“These women are the unsung heroes,” First Lady Suzanne Pillen said, emphasizing the vital role spouses play while their husbands serve on the frontlines.
State leaders praise the initiative
Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly highlighted the “tremendous responsibility” carried by Guard spouses, adding, “We can’t give you all enough. We can’t say thank you enough.” Maj. Gen. Craig Strong echoed the sentiment, describing the “unspoken oath” spouses take to answer late‑night calls, fix broken water heaters, comfort children, juggle careers, and keep the home front steady during deployments.
Jeanne Varejcka, whose husband, Army Col. Shane Varejcka, retired after 36 years of service, spoke about the personal cost of military life. “It’s definitely a sacrifice. They’re sacrificing for their country, but we’re also sacrificing being away from our spouse and the worry that comes with it,” she said.
Varejcka credited her faith community for helping her stay strong during her husband’s 22‑month deployment, underscoring the importance of church and local support networks for military families.
How the ribbon idea originated
The concept for the ribbon came from Command Sgt. Maj. Dennis Krecklow, who noted that spouses often receive only a certificate while watching their partners earn service ribbons. “Generally, they’ll just get a certificate. It’s heartfelt and meaningful, but so many times they’ve sat in the front row and watched their spouse get a service ribbon, never to receive one on their own,” he explained.
Krecklow said conversations are already underway with several other states about adopting a similar honor, hoping Nebraska’s lead will inspire a broader recognition of military spouses nationwide.
Looking ahead
The ribbon will become a permanent part of the Nebraska National Guard’s retirement honors, ensuring that the contributions of spouses are formally acknowledged alongside the service of Guard members. State officials expressed optimism that the new tradition will strengthen families, reinforce community ties, and highlight the essential role of faith and family in supporting those who protect the nation.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
