Wednesday, March 31, 2010

One Military Wife's Point of View

I read on one of my friend's blog about another military wife's blog post.  This girl was ranting about what she sees as a lack of support/appreciation toward people in the military and their families from the town she lives in.  She goes on to mention the lack of stickers supporting the military, while there are country club membership stickers.  I went and read the post and in my opinion it sounds like she wants people to spend every second of everyday making sure the military knows they are being thought of and supported.  This is not the way that all military spouses see things and I don't want to be put in that group.  It is also my humble opinion that life has to go on, even if there is a war going on. As an Army wife, I truly believe that Americans are overall very supportive of the military and their family.

I know I am new at this military spouse thing. My hubby just rejoined several months ago, but it is a choice we made for him to serve. There isn't a draft so all the men and women serving made the choice to do so.  He feels passionate about it. He wants to be an officer in the Army Guard to serve our state and country and he doesn't expect anything in return like praise and adulation. He is paid well and has great benefits when on active duty.  These are supported by tax dollars so that is a form of support and appreciation.

While trying to complete OCS in January, he couldn't walk through an airport in uniform without people stopping him just to say "Thanks." The airlines also made a point to offer upgrades just to show their appreciation. These acts of kindness are awesome and left him feeling appreciated. What more could someone ask for? I am also stopped frequently and asked about Mike and if he will be deployed. We know this will happen after he is commissioned. That is something we knew going in. When I answer them, people offer me support, thoughts, and prayers. This show of support, just makes my heart swell with pride for my hubby. This type of support means so much more than any bumper sticker or yellow ribbon ever could. These are people taking a personal interest in my soldier.

As long as people are respectful of those serving and aren't bashing them, I am happy.  I, like a lot of people I know, don't want or need attention just because we happen to be involved in the military.  I know many people are serving our country and I am very thankful for them and the sacrifices they and their families are making.  I know that most people feel the same way, even though, there may not be all the outward signs.



These words are just my opinion, and if you disagree with me, I would love to hear your insight on things.

2 comments:

  1. I totally agree with you of course :)

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  2. It seems like you are right on...I have so much respect for those who serve in the military. I have a cousin who went to Iraq pretty much out of high school. He was in a special forces unit (I don't really know what I'm talking about, but I think it was some specially picked team) and saw and had to do things that he still has such a hard time dealing with. I don't know how those who serve do it. Truly amazing. I feel for him and I pray for him, because he has a long road as far as recovering. You should be proud of your husband! :) Thank you for your comment on my blog. I appreciate it so much.

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