Ashley Acree

Share your military spouse story:
I’ve been a military spouse for almost 11 years. In that time, we’ve moved five times, learning to pack up, start over, and keep life moving. Some days, I manage a lot of the daily routine on my own, kids’ schedules, appointments, and household decisions, while my husband works in a job he can’t discuss with an unpredictable schedule. Parenting without a village and raising kids who adapt to constant change has taught me the value of building community wherever we are. Military life can feel isolating, but it’s also taught me that flexibility isn’t optional: plans change, schedules shift, and life moves forward whether you feel ready or not. Experiencing challenges that often go unnoticed and having little support inspired me to support others and remind people they aren’t alone. This life has given me perspective, strength, and a deep appreciation for the journey we share as a family.

Describe any leadership positions or provide an overview of your leadership contributions within the military community.
As Key Spouse for my husband’s squadron, I am rebuilding a program that had been dormant. This role has taught me that leadership isn’t measured by numbers, but by consistency, support, and creating opportunities for connection. I check in with spouses, offer guidance, and organize monthly gatherings to foster community and ensure everyone feels seen and included. Leadership also happens behind the scenes, it requires patience, initiative, and creativity to build a program that strengthens families and supports service members. Through this role, I’ve learned that true leadership is about serving, connecting, and uplifting others consistently. I am proud to lay a foundation that will continue to support military families for years to come.

What programs or projects are you currently involved in that support the needs of military families?
Currently, my primary involvement in supporting military families is through my role as Key Spouse for my husband’s squadron. While the program is still in the process of being rebuilt, I actively work to provide support, connection, and resources to spouses. This includes periodic check-ins to offer guidance and encouragement, organizing monthly gatherings to foster community, and keeping spouses informed of relevant squadron updates. Though I am still growing the program and engagement is in its early stages, I view this as an important foundation for long-term support. My focus is on creating a reliable and welcoming resource for military families, ensuring that even small gestures of connection and information-sharing make a meaningful difference in their day-to-day lives. I am committed to expanding this involvement over time, exploring ways to meet the unique needs of our military families and strengthen the squadron community through consistent support, outreach, and engagement.

What moments best reflect your impact on building inclusive community among military spouses?
As Key Spouse, I focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all spouses, no matter their background or how long they’ve been part of the squadron. I organize monthly gatherings designed to connect spouses, share resources, and provide support in a nonjudgmental space. I also check in personally with spouses. Even in the early stages of rebuilding the program, I strive to ensure everyone feels seen, included, and valued. My goal is to lay the foundation for a community where all spouses feel supported and connected, no matter their level of involvement or familiarity with military life.

Identify your main advocacy effort and describe your personal connection to the cause.
My main advocacy effort is creating connection and support for military spouses, particularly through my role as Key Spouse. I am passionate about ensuring that every spouse feels seen, included, and informed, regardless of how long they’ve been part of the squadron or their familiarity with military life. This cause is personal to me because I know firsthand how isolating it can feel when schedules are unpredictable or life requires juggling multiple responsibilities alone. I want to provide a consistent, welcoming resource so that no spouse feels unsupported or invisible. Through monthly gatherings, check-ins, and sharing information, I aim to build a community where all spouses feel valued, connected, and empowered.

Summarize your advocacy outreach strategies, including any events, media involvement, or other communication efforts.
My advocacy outreach strategies focus on building connection and maintaining open communication with spouses in my squadron. I periodically check in to offer support, guidance, and resources, ensuring everyone feels informed and included. I organize monthly gatherings to provide opportunities for social connection, camaraderie, and peer support. Through consistent communication and intentional community-building, I strive to create a welcoming environment where all spouses feel seen, supported, and valued.

What do you hope to accomplish with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year^® title?
With the AFI Military Spouse of the Year® title, I hope to inspire spouses to recognize their own strength, resilience, and influence. I want to use the platform to bring attention to the everyday sacrifices and quiet leadership of military families, highlighting the power of empathy, connection, and community. More than recognition, I hope to encourage others to lead with heart and lift each other up, leaving a lasting impact.