Dear Air Force

Dear AF,
We need to talk.

We have decided to leave you. 

And tomorrow is our last day. This is it.  We're saying goodbye.  We've reached the end.  I say "our" and "we" because Brian and I are a team & we've decided that after these last 23 years, you have changed.  Hell, we've changed too.  And at this point, it's just time to part ways and call it done. 

It hasn't really been one single thing that brought us to this decision - the TDYs, the deployments, the PCSs far away from family, the yearning to put our roots down permanently, & your leadership decisions.  Yes, most certainly your leadership decisions.  It's all these things; not one thing more than the other.

One thing is for certain - I'm beaming with pride as I think about Brian's long decorated career with you.  I know he served you and this great country with complete loyalty and dedication.  Of course, as soon as I say anything of the sorts about how proud I am of him, I'm almost always overcome with emotion - I have a lump in my throat just typing these thoughts & the tears are already beginning to well-up in my eyes. You see, it's sheer pride in my husband that causes this. Patriotic spirit I tell you.

My feelings are mixed as well as all over the map about this milestone that Brian has reached.  Some days hours moments I'm excited about what our life will be like when the boots are off and the uniform is hung up...for good.  In other moments, it's unsettling to know that things won't be the same.  That there is a great sense of uncertainty in our future as retirees.  We won't be on the inside anymore; instead, we will be on the outside of this so called brotherhood. 

I know in the end this is the best choice for us and the kids. We've seen the writing on the wall for quite some time now.  We haven't agreed with many of your decisions despite pressing on & continuing to lead in difficult times.

I will say that we are both appreciative of the traveling opportunities you have given us; the chance to grow stronger and closer as a family despite the distance and separation from each other that we endured over the years; the experience of meeting so many new people that touched our lives & will forever hold a special place in our hearts. 

With all of this said, I need you to know that this is hard. But what will make it easier to swallow and move on is your monthly alimony retirement check you will be sending.  Please ensure it is direct deposited by the 1st of the month.  Don't be late with it either.  Chop-Chop!

We'll see you around.  I'm sure we can still be friends, right?  No hard feelings, OK?

Very Respectfully,
MSgt Heck's spouse