The Army started a really cool program to honor the Spouses of the military, called The Freedom Team Salute.   Ciriana signed me up a few months ago and last week I was surprised to receive a package under my name.   “I haven’t ordered anything online,” I thought.   “Oh no. It’s anthrax, or something.   I should burn it!”   Ok so that last part was just a passing thought, and I ended up opening it.

Appreciation

To my surprise, I pulled out a signed certificate by the Chief of Staff and the Secretary of the Army – George W. Casey Jr. and Pete Geren respectively.   I was blown away.   To be recognized  as an important part of the Army is an honor, especially when you don’t wear the uniform!

I don’t think any military Spouse would ask for an award or for any type of compensation – besides more time with their Soldier – but to be recognized by the people running the whole gig really is amazing.

It is a great experience, being an Army Spouse.   We’ve traveled to places most people only visit in their golden years.   We’ve made friends from different parts of the world.   We’ve been taken care of, as well. For every good day, though,   it seems that there are equal bad days in the military.   Late nights, missed anniversaries, separation for long periods of time…   it goes on and on.   But, for the most part, we don’t complain.

Ciriana works long hard days (12 hours minimum, a day!) and it sucks welcoming her home late at night after Izzy has gone to bed.   But there’s worse.   People fighting downrange don’t get to see their families at all…   some never will.   My point is, that no matter what happens, we consider ourselves blessed.   The award is a welcome honor, but we are recognized every day by the people who love us in their everyday sacrifice.

QUICK FACT:   Did you know that in military publications, when referring to military family members, Spouse is capitalized as a form of respect to their sacrifice?

Ciriana will be leaving the military – those long hours are taking their toll.   It’s unfortunate to have to say goodbye to a group that has nurtured us for so long, but our direction in life has changed.

Some people close to Ciriana’s military career feel like this is a betrayal of everything the military has given us.   We respect what the Army has done for us, and we’ll never take for granted the opportunity it has granted us, either.   We’ll live our days with every value and virtue the military has taught us.   We’re not betraying the gift, we’re reusing it for something else!

Spouse Pin came with the Award

So, it’s a great gift, this award.   It means even more to me as we enter Ciriana’s last few months in the military.   This commendation will always hang on my wall, along with Ciriana’s coins.