More Than A Spouse: How Ashley Stack Turned a PCS Into Purpose

When Ashley Stack watched movers pack her photography studio into long-term storage, she knew she was putting more than cameras and backdrops away for the next three years.

After spending five years building a successful photography business, a move to Naples, Italy, brought an unexpected challenge. Due to Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) regulations, Ashley learned she would not be able to continue operating her small business overseas.

“I was heartbroken,” she said.

One Last Adventure

Ashley and her husband have been married for 17 years, but their story began much earlier.

“We met as high school sophomores and have been friends for twenty-eight years,” she shared.

Together, they have three children. While her husband spent many years on active duty, most of their marriage has been spent as a reserve family. When a reservist position in Naples became available as his twentieth year of service approached, they saw an opportunity they could not pass up.

“We saw the chance to give our kids an amazing opportunity and have one last adventure with the Navy before retirement,” Ashley said.

The family moved overseas six months ago, trading the familiarity of their hometown for a new life in Italy and an experience they hoped would leave a lasting impact on their children.

When a Dream Changes Course

Before the move, Ashley had built a thriving photography business after years as a teacher and stay-at-home parent.

“With the support of my husband, I launched my photography business,” she said.

What began as a home-based business grew rapidly, eventually allowing her to open her own studio.

“Knowing that I had a dedicated workspace made me feel like a true professional,” Ashley said. “I was giving my clients the experience that I had always dreamed of.”

Just ten months later, orders arrived. Ashley made the difficult decision to close her business and place her equipment in storage for the duration of their assignment.

“It still makes me sad, knowing how hard I worked for my dream, only to have it taken away,” she said.

But while one chapter was closing, another began.

Meeting a Need

Shortly after arriving in Naples, Ashley experienced firsthand one of the challenges many military families face during a PCS. While waiting for their household goods shipment, her children spent weeks with only the toys and books they packed themselves.

“My children spent about two months playing with the same toys and books that they had packed for themselves while we waited for our HHG shipment to arrive,” she said.

The experience helped her recognize the value of a local initiative called Transition Toys.

Founded by fellow military spouse Lucie Brown, Transition Toys provides military-connected families with free access to gently used books, games, puzzles, sports equipment, and activities during transitional periods. The program helps bridge the gap for families arriving at a new duty station before their household goods arrive.

When Brown announced she would be PCSing and was looking for someone to continue the program, Ashley immediately volunteered.

“I jumped at the chance,” she said. “I knew this group could fill a very niche need for so many families.”

Today, Transition Toys serves families throughout the Naples area and has expanded to support families at a remote detachment in Gaeta, Italy. Operated entirely through donations and volunteer support, the program helps reduce financial strain while supporting military families during times of transition.

Helping Families Feel at Home

The impact has been meaningful.

“When a mom sends us a picture or text saying how much her children loved the toys, it’s just such an incredible feeling,” Ashley said. “Knowing that we helped a family and made life a little easier for them truly makes my day.”

Through her involvement, Ashley has found a renewed sense of purpose and connection within her overseas community.

“Transition Toys allows families to feel welcomed almost immediately after they arrive,” she said. “To know that, in the middle of what can feel like chaos, they are seen, heard, and understood, is so important.”

Building Transition Toys required networking, persistence, and a willingness to learn along the way. For military spouses who see a need in their community but aren’t sure where to begin, Ashley’s advice is simple: “Fake it ’til you make it!”

“If you see a need in your community, just start helping,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be perfect. Just make some connections and help others.”

What Matters Most

When asked what she is most proud of, Ashley’s answer isn’t her business or her volunteer work. Instead, she points to her children.

After spending the previous 12 years in the same town, they are now adapting to life in a new country, learning a new language, and building new friendships.

“They’ve been resilient, kind, helpful, understanding, and supportive,” Ashley said. “It’s truly amazing to watch them learn and grow every day.”

For Ashley, the move to Naples may have required putting one dream on hold, but watching her children thrive and helping other military families find their footing has given the experience a purpose all its own.

Ashley’s story is one of countless examples of the impact military spouses have on their families, their communities, and the military-connected world around them. Military spouses are innovators, advocates, entrepreneurs, volunteers, and leaders, often serving others in ways that go unseen. If you have a story to share, or know a military spouse doing incredible things, we’d love to hear from you. Share your story below and help us celebrate the many ways military spouses make a difference.

Together We’re Stronger ®

By: Olivia Brinsfield, Content Manager