Proud Army Girlfriend...

I know you hate this kind of stuff: bumper stickers, jewelry, t-shirts.  THOSE girls, with their flip flops and his combat boots.  I know that it's not your favorite thing in the world, but at some point after you left that first time, I knew.  I was a proud Army girlfriend.  I don't always agree with some of the posts I see on Pinterest of this nature, bumper stickers I've seen both on base at Ft. Campbell and off, or some of the Facebook posts shared by friends of 18-year-olds wearing their new boyfriend's dog tags while he goes to basic training, but one thing remains correct... All of these women, girls... are PROUD. 

Not everyone knows where their future is headed.  I can't tell you how many girls I know who've dated military and gotten all the sweat pants, underwear, tank tops, bracelets, bumper stickers, and all sorts of Victoria's Secret apparel that have had to donate, return, or burn it because things didn't work out.
I've never wanted to be someone to put all of my eggs in one basket, but every time I fall, I do.  I'm usually sure.  100%, that this is right, that this is perfect.  I've always CONVINCED myself that this was it.  Elated, overjoyed... but with you I was terrified.  A United States soldier, a hero, a post 9/11 veteran, a real man.  You intimidated me just with your resume.  It didn't take long for me to realize that I was comfortable, and for the first time ever, I didn't have to make excuses, I didn't have to talk myself into it.  I was yours. And I was truly ecstatic.

Anyway, back to the "proud Army girlfriend" thing...
I never knew what it would be like to be the real supporting role to someone.  It's so attractive that you're successful and know how to take care of yourself.  That your career is a priority to you, that you one day want a family and want to support them.  You're one of the most amazing men I've ever had the privilege to know (third, after my father and grandfather).

I love you so much.  If anyone asks me, I'm of course a proud Army girlfriend. :)

(Now I just need that sweet dog tag with a photo and quote necklace made.  Don't make too much fun of me!)