Five spouses of recently retired Nebraska National Guard soldiers and airmen were honored during a ceremony Monday at the Governor’s Residence. They were presented with a newly created state military spouse service ribbon.
Governor Jim Pillen also signed a proclamation designating Oct. 27 as Military Spouse Appreciation Day and formally establishing the Nebraska National Guard Military Spouse Service Ribbon as an official state decoration.
“I just want to simply say on behalf of all the people in Nebraska, thank you very, very much,” Pillen said. “It takes an extraordinary family to support the spouse that loves this place and is committed to do everything they can. We’re just incredibly grateful.”
The ribbon recognizes the sacrifices and contributions of Guard spouses who support their loved ones throughout their military careers, including during deployments and other extended absences. First Lady Suzanne Pillen said military spouses take on significant responsibilities to keep their families and households running while their service members are away.
“When a Guard member is called, it is the spouse who is called upon to hold the family together,” she said. “Our spouses serve just as assuredly as those who wear the uniform. They represent a partnership in service to our state.”
Major General Craig Strong, Nebraska’s adjutant general, authorized the ribbon for inclusion in the Guard’s state-level awards program. The award recognizes a spouse’s “profound and meritorious service” upon the retirement of their military member.
The ribbon features gold, white, blue and red stripes and is designed to be worn on a spouse’s lapel during formal occasions. Eligibility is retroactive to spouses of Guard members who retired after May 8, 2026.
The inaugural recipients are Angie Ropers, wife of retired Army Brig. Gen. Gary Ropers; Jeanne Varejcka, wife of retired Army Col. Shane Varejcka; Stacie Koehler, wife of retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Curtis Koehler; Shellie Mueller, wife of retired Air Force Col. Wade Mueller; and Michelle Haugland, wife of retired Air Force Master Sgt. Tyler Haugland.
(Photos: Governor’s Office)