Love the Uniform
by Chrystal M
Off we go into the wild blue yonder is what I can still remember almost seventeen years ago when my husband graduated from Basic Military Training. This is where my new life began as a military wife and mother. I knew nothing about the military, but only that I liked my man in his uniform. The military can be a highly stressful job; not only for the Airmen, but for the family. Being a new military wife, I didn’t understand that when they go to another state, or out of the country, for a TDY or deployment, it's not all fun and games for them. They are hurting as much as we are; the only difference is we have something that's a part of them…OUR KIDS. They only have the memories and photographs. As we get used to moving around, it will never be an easy task. The military does not give us fancy cars and expensive clothes, but what it does give us is our freedom; and I’m so proud to say my husband is a part of that. Military has opened so many doors for my family and me. I have been able to raise my boys in a safe environment and know that if they are sick, or in need of a doctor, the Air Force family has always been there. The Air Force has provided an education for my husband, leading to a Baccalaureate in Social Psychology; which will give us the security for when he retires. The Air Force has still let me achieve my goals in barrel racing; some bases offer horse owners like me somewhere to board our horses. Because of this, I have twice been awarded California Hall of Fame! I thank you. My Air Force has given me a hero.