#deployment support

You’re completely fine. First off, deployment is a terrifying thing, especially your first one. There’s just so much unknown about it. So it’s normal to break down. When I found out my husband was getting deployed I did.

The time zone is different, so your schedules will more than likely be flopped. He’ll be waking up when you go to bed and vice versa. It’ll take some getting used to. Also, talk time will be limited. He may be able to Skype you daily (or almost daily), or he may only get to call or send an email once in a while. It all depends on where he’ll be at. But don’t let that discourage you. Take advantage of the emails, IMs and phone calls. And sometimes when you don’t get a call, you’ll get scared something happened. Just remember sometimes no news is good news. COMS blackouts are also a thing. When they occur, troops will have no contact back home for hours or days. Write him letters. It’ll let him know what’s happening in your life even when you can’t talk to him. Plus troops love getting mail while deployed. 

Deployment is a stressful thing. So sometimes tensions will get high and you both will get angry or upset or sad. But that’s ok. Just don’t let it ruin things. Deployments can make or break your relationship. So let it strengthen it. Focus on positives. The days may seem to inch by, but deployments end. 

Remember OPSEC. This is VERY important. Don’t post troop movements, times or locations online or talk about it over the phone. It can endanger the troops. 

Stay busy and be active. Use the time to learn something new. Just take it a day at a time. The first couple of weeks are always the hardest.

Although it’s scary, remember you’re so strong. You both can make it through this and your relationship will be stronger than ever, if you allow it to be. It’s okay to cry. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. And if you need to talk, I’m always here. 

I hope this helped! If not, feel free to write back.

Love Always,

I just wanted to take a moment and remind you that YOU ARE STRONG. The nights may seem endless, but I can promise, they will end. Remember that it's ok to cry. It doesn't make you weak. It makes you human. Also when you feel like you can't take it anymore, remember that they miss you just as much as you miss them. They'll be home soon.