The Armed Forces often overlook the significance of military spouses. Consider for a moment that we have given you the title of “Dependent,” suggesting that you are somehow subservient to your service member. The truth is, I would be lost if it weren’t for my wife’s unwavering support and dedication throughout my 24 years of military service, and I know I’m not unique in that experience.

That’s why it’s time we start referring to all of you by a more empowering title. “Military Spouses” is much better than “Dependents,” but I suggest…..

“Co-Defenders of the Free World!“

The language we all use can profoundly impact how we treat one another and how we view ourselves.

“Dependent” implies that the military spouse is less than an equal partner; but this could not be further from the truth! You brave and dedicated men and women provide an essential source of strength, love, and support for your spouses in uniform—a role that should never go unrecognized. 

Over the last quarter of a century, my wife has held our marriage, our children, and sometimes my sanity together. She has packed and unpacked thousands of boxes during ten moves. She has purchased and sold homes while I’ve been away. She’s enrolled our children in new schools and sometimes she’s homeschooled them to ensure they get the best education possible. 

While my wife has diligently served in anonymity, I’ve been awarded important sounding titles and a chest full of medals. The only thing on my wife’s chest has been a hungry baby, or the tears of a neighbor who’s loved one didn’t return from the last deployment.

It might take a long time to change your title officially.

Nonetheless, we could unofficially change your title today, to show you our nation’s appreciation for your sacrifices.

It takes an incredible person to stand by their service member through long deployments and frequent moves around the world, while dealing with intense emotions due to combat trauma and frequent absences during holidays/anniversaries/birthdays—and the list goes on!

Service members rightfully get recognition for their bravery and dedication in defending our country, but our military spouses exhibit their own bravery and dedication while staying home and managing all the challenges on the home front, such as parenting children and maintaining their own careers. 

The strength of our Armed Forces is our service members.

The strength of our service members is supported by all the men and women who make their service possible, starting with their spouses. I want to recognize the courage and strength of military spouses worldwide by giving all of you a title that more appropriately reflects your true value in protecting our freedom!

This is one way the rest of us can honor the many sacrifices you make on behalf of our country every single day. You deserve nothing less than our deepest love and utmost respect.

Therefore, instead of referring to you as “Dependents,” let us refer to you as “Co-Defenders of the Free World”! 

*For more posts like this visit the Chaplain’s Corner on our Expert page.

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