Well, I am sure your willingness to keep the home fires burning was treasured.
I know for sure how much I appreciated the support I received from my wife, whether we were together somewhere or she was home and I was 'somewhere else'. The spouses of our military personnel are an invaluable asset to the national defense. Whether it is being a 'camp follower' to some God-forsaken place in the armpit of the world, or whether it is keeping everything taken care of back home, so GI Joe or GI Jane don't have to worry about it while they're busy trying to stay alive, it is invaluable. The spouse's efforts are never sufficiently recognized by the military and sadly, often not by the soldier, sailor, airman or marine themselves. I am sure I took my wife's efforts for granted on more than one occasion.
I don't really know you, but I have picked up through my reading here on SI that you sure do enjoy a good reputation, and have a great relationship with the posters 'who matter'. :-) I am quite certain Joe was thankful for your work, and for all the support you gave him, and I think I can also say with certainty, you gave it your very best.
The travel is nice, and that is one of the things I truly miss about the Army. But is sure isn't enough to keep one committed for 20 or more years. One has to feel a sense of duty to continue to sign on the dotted line, through two decades or more of service. Without the support from the spouse involved, it just couldn't happen.
Thank you for your service. It is as meaningful as that of anyone who ever wore a uniform. |
