KANSAS CITY, Mo. — It’s easy to recognize a member of the military from the uniform, but there’s another member with a uniform not as visible, their spouse.
It’s Military Spouse Appreciation Day, and often the courageous men and women serving our country have a support system behind them. Today’s the day we celebrate their contributions.
“We fight for our country in a different way,” said Anne Symanski, who has been married to Major Adam Symanski since 2005. Adam has been deployed twice in their nine years of marriage.
“It was hard, there are times when he was gone and I wished he was around, especially when we started having the girls,” said Anne.
The Symanski’s have two daughters — Maura and Sloane — ages six and three.
“I felt like I was serving my country by supporting my soldier,” added Anne.
“It’s not easy to do what they do,” Adam said, “It’s tough to take care of the house and the whole family by yourself, so they have that dual burden all of a sudden in addition to worry and anxiety that might be there.”
Adam says as a member of the military — people generally seem appreciative:
“You always hear a thank you every now and again, and sometimes they’ll pick up your lunch!” he exclaimed.
But often times the spouses aren’t always recognized.
“Adam always says, ‘you know, I wouldn’t be able to do my job if I didn’t know that you were at home, and you were okay, and that the home-front is safe and sound,'” said Anne.
That’s why President Obama declared May 9th, 2014 as Military Spouse Appreciation Day.
“Obviously it’s a different type, but it’s equally as valid and stressful, it’s apples and oranges, but they’re both fruit!” says Adam.
For more information on Military Spouse Appreciation Day, click on this link.
