Forever Friendships

As this Veteran’s Day comes to a close, I have been reflecting all day on some of the best friendships I have known in my life. My “Military Family” is one that is so special, so unique, and organically a part of what it means to be a part of our great Armed Forces.

I don’t know how I would have survived over 20 years without God & my Military Family.

I say to people all of the time this true fact:

“You are with those you work with every day awake, longer that you are with your family every day. These are precious & lifelong connections.”

We don’t have to talk every day, or every month, but the strong connection remains. We know each other’s spouses, watch each other’s children come into the world, become their babysitters, their “Aunts” & “Uncles”, and follow them through adulthood. We work long hours, we travel together, and we house-sit for each other. We support the families that are holding it down until their military member returns home. We become each other’s confidants, supporters, mentors, and genuine friends. We fill in the gaps for each other to ensure the mission is fulfilled. So many selfless and repeated acts of kindness have been overwhelmingly received, its simply amazing!!!

For me, the friendships have transcended new assignments, various moves, and retirement. They are solid connections that I truly cherish.

To all my friends throughout the years, THANK YOU for your mentoring, your support, your encouragement, your chastisement, your correction, your confidence, and your love. I appreciate each and every one of you and I am so glad to call you my Military Family. Thank you for your servant leadership and for your examples of true FRIENDSHIP. I am richly blessed & love each of you. Lastly, thank you for your service!!

Happy Veteran’s Day!!!!