The Associated Retired Officers Wives group, or AROWS, claims to provide its members with ‘pleasant associations', but the best word to describe what it provides is camaraderie.

"It is about our sisterhood," said past president Carolyn Guppy. "Sometimes, especially when living overseas or during deployments, all you have is the other wives and that bond is still strong even after your husband retires!"

Currently AROWS has close to 100 members and their monthly luncheons, held on the third Thursday at Patriots Landing in DuPont, typically draws an impressive 50 to 70 ladies. The members are also avid volunteers, not that it is required.

"There is always time to give back," said secretary Joann Brake. "If there is an event or chance to help, we usually have at least 10 members show up to do what they can."

In addition to volunteering, the non-profit group also makes a point of donating their monthly collections to worthy causes like the Fisher House, the American Red Cross for Haiti Relief or the Wounded Warriors Fund. Though sometimes that money goes into the Sunshine Fund, which is in place to provide memorials for recently deceased members and cheer, in the form of flowers and a visit, to those that may be ill.

AROWS has also spawned sub-clubs, like the group that bowls every Monday on JBLM McChord Field, a crafters club and the out-to-lunch bunch who routinely dine out somewhere fun once a month.

AROWS was founded 51 years ago by a group of spouses who felt that the women and widows who had supported their husbands during their military careers deserved an opportunity to meet others with similar experiences. The club is open to wives from all branches of the military and to retired female officers. Annual dues are $25 and those interested in joining should contact Diane Ferluga at dferluga@hotmail.com.