Why, I love my Soldier

Recently, I was reminded that some people probably wonder, "Why, would anyone choose to marry a soldier". I took one of the kids in to the health clinic, (a weekly experience) these days. Anyway, the doctor said, "What's wrong with Mommy", except for the fact that she married a soldier". He was just kidding, trying to make Sydney less nervous. However, I replied, without hesitating.....that it might sound crazy, but that I could not imagine doing anything else in life".

Now, let's be clear. I am not saying that for all of the wonderful perks, that Louis's job brings. Reality check.....I am in what the army folks deem as the "pit of Germany". I am on my second deployment in three years, I haven't seen the sun for more than an hour at a time, in about five months and it's not like I am living in a mansion. No, I am not traveling around Europe in my jet...but instead a beat up van( something that is normal in Germany) with over one hundred thousand miles on it; and let's face it we are still trying to decide if the smell coming from the back is left over french fries, or someone's socks!

And, regardless of what some people think, nowdays my shopping experience is one hour at the commissary and if I am lucky the local german grocery store. I actually, said these words just tonight to a friend. I am going to take out the trash, to have some time to myself!! Okay, folks not something I thought I would ever say, EVER!!!!

But, with all of that....let me tell you all why I am glad I married my soldier. Besides, the fact that he is one gorgeous cajun, and a really good cook!!! He is simply, "My Hero". In a world, today where people are afraid to stand for anything, with the fear of not being tolerant, he stands up for his country!!!! And, when I say that, it's not taken lightly. Louis, really, really is willing to give up his life for our country. He, has more integrity then anyone I have ever known. He is probably going to kill me for telling you all this, but I have a really good example. We had an opportunity to go meet the President and the First Lady last year, when they came to Wiesbaden to thank First Armor Division. He, chose not to go, because in his words, " We have training scheduled, all of the commanders are going to be gone; and I just think someone needs to be here, in case something goes wrong; and he also wanted another soldier and wife to get a chance to go. I am not saying that, because I want everyone to think that Louis is so special. I just want to give an example of how he thinks everyday!!

He never forgets to tell me that he loves me. He sends me flowers and candy for Valentine's. He listens to all of my boring antidotes of the day and he even tells me that he is praying for me. He remembers to send the kids cards, emails, and even manages to make sure he calls us most nights. He does all of this while commanding a company of about 150 soldiers, going to numerous meetings every day, and planning short range/long range training that changes like the wind.

And....here is the thing....the thing that chokes me up inside. He, doesn't think anything about it. He got a very, special medal last deployment; and didn't even mention it to me....not a word!! He never complains, just pushes on. He has missed numerous birthdays, anniversaries, kid's "firsts", fun trips, and still.....manages to connect to us. He believes in what he is doing; and is not afraid to do what needs to be done. He misses us, terribly but still manages to always sound upbeat. He sleeps on a cot, but is excited that he has sheets. He got up at 4:00 in the morning to watch the superbowl, just so he could see a commercial our FRG shot; and my guess is he will be the last to take R&R leave.

These, are just some of the reasons why I am glad I married my soldier. Yes, there are more lonely days and nights than I can count. I have held tears in, more than I care to admit. I have watched wives sob, because they are completely overwhelmed. I have sobbed, because I am completely overwhelmed. I have seen ladies, that are tired to the bone, with five kids take on a few more, because her friend needed her. I have seen meals brought, prayers said, hugs given, time sacrificed, and most of all I have gotten to see God, everyday....because over here, some days that's all of us have left.

Why, am I glad a married a soldier....because I when I married my soldier I was given the opportunity to be a part of something bigger than myself, bigger than what I had or what I did, or what I didn't have. Somehow, when you watch loved ones, friends, and neighbors go off to combat and then don't get to see some of them come back; well that makes life a little more valuable.

If you ever see a soldier and his spouse, somewhere wherever you are, just thank them. You don't know what that means. It's one thing to see it on television, but when someone actually stops and thanks you...well it's just a very humbling and wonderful experience.

One more thing, today when your cable goes out, or your cell phone won't work. Maybe you get mad at your "honey" because they didn't do something they were supposed to do; or they didn't say something they should have....or maybe someone gets in the 15 or less line; and of course they have more than 15 items. I am just asking that you stop, pause and think to yourself.....is this reallly big....I mean there are soldiers waiting in a line, in Kuwait or Iraq, maybe for three hours, just so they can say hello to their wife or kids.....does 2 more minutes really matter!!!

Well, Goodnight and sorry about the long soapbox; it just helps me to get it out.

Lou, if you read this, just remember that I love you and I am so proud of you and the other guys. Tell them thanks,
Patty