Military Spouses Are the Unsung Heroe

The duration of my absence from home gains significance as it increases. Whether a weekend drill, month-long training, or yearlong deployment, each service member in good standing answers the call of duty. Those that are married leave a void in one place to fill it in another. But as the service member goes to fulfill their obligation, the spouse remains and fulfills theirs. Each day soldiers, seamen, marines, airmen, and coast guardsmen leave the comfort of home and family to serve in defense of our beloved country. At home the husbands and wives of those service members serve in a different capacity. Their service involves continuing to maintain the “day to day” things spouses do in partnership with one another, yet do it alone.

Suddenly they are alone to carry on. While I travel, my wife prays for my safety to reach the destination. While the service member attends school, the spouse singlehandedly feeds, clothes, supervises, and transports children to school. While the service member receives instruction, the spouse teaches themselves and their children the virtues of honesty and sharing. While I mentor other service members, my wife models courage and longsuffering. While I do my duty in uniform my wife does her duty taking care of our home, paying bills, fretting repairs, single parenting and making decisions in my absence. Her strength cannot be overstated. In my absence the business of home life continues and she soldiers on. She has no training in overtaking an objective, yet she does it consistently. She is not trained in counseling yet her insight is sought. Her value is immeasurable. In communication with me she states and restates that everything is fine, knowing the importance of a soldier with a clear head. She rejoices with me, as if she had been there, when I share my travel experiences which she could not be a part of. She remains ever available by the phone or computer while still carrying out the duties of caring for our home. Never have I felt like I needed to leave my place of duty come home because she handles home so well. Her assurance is comforting and strong. I would not want to serve without her.

There is no official military award or medal for the labor of love and service of military spouses. They answer their call with the strength and dedication of those they support and provide a solid foundation to stand on as well as a place of refuge to return to. Behind every medal, every award, and every promotion of a married service member stands the quiet, steadfast strength of a faithful spouse, who loves America and the role their spouse serves in making her a great country. I believe military spouses are the unsung heroes of The United States Armed Forces.