In the heart of spring, almond trees bloom in a stunning display of delicate white and pink flowers (tomertu (123RF))
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15 KMC ladies arrived at the Neustadt train station in February 2025 to experience the pink and white almond blossoms. Needless to say, the flowers were a small part of what made the day memorable.
Each woman had a unique journey and a PCS story with the challenges of building a life far from home. One lady in the group arrived just the week before. Yet another moved here almost seven years ago. Regardless of each lady’s expat experience, meetups like these bring people together.
The Gimmeldingen Almond Blossom Festival, a favorite annual event along Germany’s wine road, celebrates the region’s history. Situated in the Palatinate region, the event takes place two weekends each year, when the almond trees reach peak bloom. Visitors enjoy food and vendors, sip specialty regional drinks in souvenir wine glasses, and embrace the spring vibes. For many women in the community, navigating the train to this cultural gem is a small but meaningful step toward acclimating to life abroad. It is also an opportunity for those who have been here awhile to show newcomers the ropes.
On this trip, the women were connected through a Facebook group: Ladies of the KMC. This group is different than other well-known spouses’ groups. It is not only for Q&A and online discussion. The community advocates are volunteers who set up events, ranging from game nights to monthly dinners to train trips and child-free night outs: all with a goal of helping others acclimate to life after a PCS, by making Germany accessible and enjoyable for all.
Event facilitators often take the lead in purchasing group tickets, guiding newcomers through the process of navigating public transit and providing reassurance to those facing anxiety about travel.
It helps people to learn by doing. Taking the train with others the first few times helps overcome fears and build confidence. And that extends beyond the train ride. Having a meal in a German restaurant together, attending cultural or city events or finding places to do crafts and host game nights is all learning through experience.
Couple at railway station. (petrunina (123RF))
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This hands-on approach exemplifies the mission of the group, which is dedicated to supporting women and the community across various walks of life—whether they are active duty, contract professionals or spouses juggling family commitments.
The group’s mission is clear: to foster community and provide a sense of belonging through shared experiences, cultural outings and heartfelt support. It is led by women for women in the extended KMC area, including Baumholder and Spangdahlem.
Attending events like the Almond Blossoms Festival is just one example of how the group achieves this. Beyond the gorgeous scenery and cultural immersion, it’s the sense of “finding your tribe” that resonates with the members.
Any member can schedule a meetup! For example, new fitness instructors joining the area may host an event, such as “Pilates and Brunch.” Other people schedule meetups for coffee or a meal to make new friends in their village. In addition, a series of online chats are available based on topical interest, age and village. A member recently started an online gaming chat for KMC gamers.
The group has fantastic admins who volunteer their time to give back to the community. Tammy Thompson, a retiree, coordinates a monthly dinner that has become so popular, almost 40 people joined last month. Carolina Ortega-Chevaz recently facilitated an FCK game day, which was a highlight for many members who didn’t know how to buy tickets but wanted to experience German football. In addition, Latasha Thomas, veteran and founder of QIK Learning Services, offers relevant events, such as spa trips and paint and sips for a fee.
For many women, whether new or here a long time, this group is THE starting point for meaningful friendships that last long after the festivals end. It takes a village! While the Ladies group is focused on child-free, ladies time, many people want to do things with male spouses or have kids. The group created a spinoff group last year, called “KMC Connect” for COED family meetups, but it is still in the baby stages and is becoming a group for all people to network, create meetups and ask lifestyle questions.
Two cheerful girls eating pizza in a outdoor cafe,relaxing after shopping. (ivankoivanko (123RF))
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Search for “Ladies of KMC (Child Free Fun)” and “KMC Connect” to connect with others on Facebook.
Admins do their best to validate profiles online and limit membership to Americans or base workers affiliated with military communities for community alignment. However, these Facebook groups are public pages and not affiliated with the military in any way.
This story was written by Marni Rutkofsky who inherited “Ladies of KMC” over a year ago. She is a volunteer community blogger on Facebook and Instagram @euroLYF.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
