I received a medal Monday. I am the proud recipient of the Military Spouse Medal from my darling husband.

The certificate reads:

The Spouse does not wear a uniform yet they serve their country. They do not acquire nor wear ribbons showing where they have been yet they go. They did not ask for the duty they perform yet they unwaveringly serve to their best ability. They serve - yet are not honored with trinkets or pieces of cloth, showing their service.

The burning candle signifies the lonely nights you have spent and that you have kept the home fires burning. A symbol with no beginning and no end, the ring around the candle flame symbolizes the undying flame of love for your spouse. The image of a rose is for the unwavering devotion you have shown for your spouse and their service to their country.

This Medal is gratefully given to those that do not ask, those that stay on the
home front so that their spouse can serve for they also proudly serve their country.

In 1984, Ronald Reagan declared the Friday before Mother’s Day to be Military Spouse Appreciation Day, which happens to be today. I’m going to step out and include significant others including girlfriends, boyfriends and fiances. There are a lot of us who were military girlfriends before we became military spouses. We know where you’re coming from!

So, to all those who serve on the homefront: I send you a big ‘ol Hooah! (or oorah or whatever your branch cry is).