One of the best things about volunteering with the MSA is that, according to Strandness, there are “a lot of areas where people can let their strengths shine.” (Mildenhall Spouses’ Association)

For those stationed at RAF Mildenhall, the Mildenhall Spouses’ Association (MSA) is a great way to get connected with the community. I recently spoke with MSA’s president, Cherice Strandness, and she told me all about the MSA and how to get involved.

Strandness has served a variety of roles within the MSA for over three years and has served as president since August 2025. One of the best things about volunteering with the MSA is that, according to Strandness, there are “a lot of areas where people can let their strengths shine.” Living overseas can be difficult for people who perhaps had more fulfilling careers or schooling in the States; however, the MSA gives people a chance to hone and develop those skills and learn new ones.

One of the topics Strandness and I discussed was the importance of “chosen families” within the military community. So often, military families are separated from their loved ones and home communities, and almost immediately are expected to establish themselves in new places as soon as the plane lands. Strandness noted how you have to have an emergency contact when signing your kids up for school. You must quickly learn to navigate complex systems, which can be overwhelming: “It’s critical for us to be there to support each other because we face quite a bit as milspouses [and] military communities,” Strandness stated.

We do community events; we do professional development; we do impactful philanthropy, and we just make sure that we strengthen and support our community. (Mildenhall Spouses’ Association)

Strandness also dispelled some of the stereotypes and misconceptions about military spouse clubs and associations. She knows these associations are often the center of rumors and talk about “clique-eyness” and “being exclusive.” She also knows they are often rooted in people’s past experiences. She wanted to alleviate those concerns with regards to MSA and the military community as a whole.

MSA is in charge of many local events and programs including the on-base thrift store, scholarship programs, the May Bazaar, the Airman’s Attic and so much more. Strandness provided a very detailed list.

Check out one of MSA’s monthly social events. (Mildenhall Spouses’ Association)

To learn more about getting involved with MSA, check them out on Facebook or Instagram, or go to mildenhallspousesassociation.com.