A Great Way of Life
   by Stephanie M

We were waiting for him to arrive from the airport. It was a sunny day in April of 2006. I was trying to be strong, trying to hold back the tears but it had been over a year since I had seen my dad. I was only fourteen then; just a little girl. But when I saw him get out of the taxi, I didn’t want to be strong anymore. For just a little while I wanted to be in my daddy’s arms again. Finally the tears were too heavy to hold back and the floodgates swung opened. Being strong is what I had been taught to be; it was my responsibility, I promised I would. But he was finally home now. My dad was finally backed from a war that had taken so many lives and had become the source of destruction for many families. Those who serve are truly brave.

I’ve always been a part of the military … it truly has been a way of life. It has provided the uneasiness of having to leave a place that you call home and best friends that you made all over again. The challenges were many, the rewards have been great. I have been given the opportunity to travel from the east coast to the Middle East. This has given me an understanding of others’ cultures and interests.

As I have begun college, and moved away from home; I’m reaping the benefits of what Air Force life taught me. I know that sometimes separation is necessary to accomplish a task. I know that I have to be responsible; others are depending on me. I know how to reach out … meet new friends.

I honestly can’t imagine my life, without the Air Force Life!