Recognizing the importance of family support, the Army introduced the program Building Strong and Ready Families in 1997. Initially, 90 active-duty couples participated in four events. Over the past years, several hundred thousand Soldiers and Airmen and their family members have participated in Strong Bonds events. Strong Bonds has spread throughout the Active and Reserve Components of the Army and National Guard (both Army and Air National Guard). In 2004, the US Code was amended to allow command funding for “chaplain corps-led programs to assist members of the armed forces… in building and maintaining a strong family structure,” (Title 10, ~1789).

In FY 2010, the active Army completed the third year of a five-year longitudinal study evaluating the outcomes of the Strong Bonds training program. Preliminary outcomes show a fifty percent lower rate in divorce with an increase in marital satisfaction for participants.

Today, new programs now meet different phases of the relationship cycle for Airmen as well. Specific ANG Strong Bonds training is offered for the Single Airmen, Couples, Families with children and all Airmen and Families facing deployment.

ANG Strong Bonds is fully-funded and Chaplain Corps-led by the NGB/HC Strong Bonds Support Team members along with the support of the local ANG Wing Leadership. Airmen and their Families attend with others in the unit who share the same unique challenges. During the State/Wing ANG Strong Bonds Training Events (retreat), Airmen, Couples and Families participate in small group activities that reveal common bonds and nurture friendships. In addition, Airmen and Families gain awareness of community resources that can assist with concerns about health and wellness, even crisis intervention.