Families of deployed Airmen enjoyed free food and fun recently at the Texas Roadhouse in Ogden.
"It's really nice having a night out. This is one of our favorite restaurants," said Jennifer Lambert, military spouse. "My husband would be really jealous right now -- he loves the food here."
The families received vouchers from the Airmen and Family Readiness Center. Each voucher was good for one of 10 menu choices and any drink.
Restaurant owner John Christensen originally contacted the A&FRC to see how he could help and has been donating the vouchers for three years so families of deployed Airmen can enjoy a night out.
"It's nice to know someone cares about us because sometimes we feel forgotten," said the June family.
Christensen's son is currently serving in the Army and will soon be going to Iraq which he says allows him to understand how families of Airmen feel to have a family member missing and why he wants to help.
"Most of the families are on budgets and the best thing I can do is offer them a nice night out for a good meal and no dishes," said Christensen. "I love it and I will never stop doing this. I wish I could do more."
Emily Watson, a service manager says she really enjoys getting to talk to the families and take care of them.
"It makes me feel like I'm doing my job worthwhile. It's not just about coming to work," Watson said. "I have been with the company for nine years and this is the only one that has done this much support with the Air Force."
Christensen and his employees have also held other events and volunteer work from feeding 700 veterans on Veterans Day, cleaning buildings at the Family Connection Center to feeding 1,000 needy people on Thanksgiving.
"My staff enjoys coming and doing these things. I feel like I am influencing my staff for the positive," Christensen said.
The restaurant also offers a 10 percent discount with military ID, $2 pints every Wednesday with ID, and any servicemen may bring in an 8- by 10-inch picture with name and rank shown and receive a free appetizer.
