So true Ledonna. Thank you for your sacrifice. Being in the military isn't just a career...it's a way of life only those in the army understand...and it changes you in many ways.
My husband loved the army too. He believed he was born to be a soldier. And he was a very promising young officer. He served for 6 years.
He was really committed to the army. No fear. But love changes it all. When we fell in love, i had to steel myself to the idea that I was marrying an infantry man. Right in front for combat. I was worried and anxious all the time. And so was he...he suddenly had something to lose.
We came to a mutual decision that we wanted to spend our lives together. Here in India, infantry regiments have alternate peace & field postings: In peace stations, your family lives with you. But in Field stations (India has difficult terrain and active fields with plenty of terrorism on all sides) you can't take your family along. So I would have 2 years with him, and then 3 years living away...then repeat...all our lives.
That made the choice for us. In my book, u don't get married to live away from each other. He made the tough choice and retired early. He went back to school while I worked and carved a new career for himself. I'm thankful everyday that it all worked out for the best. We're very happy now...no regrets. But he still refuses to part with a trunk of his uniforms and army-time medals, gear and other stuff. Even jackets or berets. I don't mind...it's was a huge sacrifice for him.