Preparing for Veteran's Day

I'm deeply saddened by the devastating violence at Fort Hood, TX yesterday. My condolences go out to the Soldiers who were killed, or injured, and their families. To know that an Officer who was trusted, and one of the U.S. Military, was behind the shootings is incomprehensible and heartbreaking.

My husband recently returned from his second deployment, to Iraq. He has been an Officer in the Army National Guard for thirteen years, making me the proud wife of a Veteran. That's not to say that I've always understood his job or been unwaveringly supportive. Yes, I've cursed the Military for taking him away from us during Deployments, I've joked about the ongoing use of acronyms in what I call "Army Talk," and I've shrugged my shoulders and rolled my eyes whenever our plans have been interrupted by an unexpected training or call to Flood Duty. No, I haven't been the best military spouse around, but I find it difficult to believe that even the most amazing wife in the world would want to kiss her husband goodbye as he leaves her to go to war.

Next week we will celebrate Veteran's Day. For many it is just a date on the calendar, or perhaps a day off of work, in the middle of the week. For me, it's a day when I remember all those who have fought for our Country, including those who are currently stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other dangerous areas of the world. It is a day when I remind my children how much their Dad sacrifices to keep us safe- how much we as a family sacrifice so he is able to do his job. Next week, on Veteran's Day, I will reminisce about all of the times I've watched my husband lace up his boots, or prepare for a PT test, or arrange his beret on his head. I will recall the two Bronze Star Medals he has earned, the promotions he's received, and the way my heart breaks each time he is deployed. Most importantly, I will be proud...proud of a man who fights for our country, who stands up for what he believes in, and who isn't afraid to shower his children with hugs and kisses at night, when he tucks them into bed.