U.S. Army Garrison Italy chaplains retreat strengthens family bonds, increases resiliency

PARMA, Italy - Couples from U.S. Army Garrison Italy recently gathered for a weekend retreat focused on strengthening relationships and building resilient families.

Hosted by Army chaplains, the event was part of the Building Strong and Ready Teams initiative. Held in the culturally rich city of Parma, the retreat welcomed couples from Vicenza and Camp Darby.

The chaplain-led retreat is one of several initiatives supporting emotional and relational health within the military community in Italy. Participants engaged in workshops, group discussions, and shared experiences aimed at reinforcing healthy relationship foundations.

Kelsey Van Fleet, a Camp Darby community member, found the weekend both fun and meaningful.

"We just had a blast getting to know each other even more," she said. "It's always good to go back to the basics."

Army Chaplain (Maj.) Michael Bielefeld, deputy garrison chaplain, emphasized that couples often seek guidance for relationship challenges. Events like these help couples realize they're not alone.

"It allows couples to come together and say, 'Oh, we're not the only ones dealing with this,'" he said.

Led by Chaplain (Maj.) Daniel Roland of Camp Darby, the retreat included exercises on communication, trust, and emotional wellness. Roland encouraged attendees to use resources available through the Religious Support Office and other Army programs.

"Asking for help and seeking it-that's the maintenance," he said.

Harvey Clark, another Camp Darby participant, appreciated the reminder that relationships require ongoing care.

"It takes nurturing and constant work," he said. "A retreat like this is sort of an additional set of glue to keep it bound together."