My goal of this series was to show a unique side of the military that I felt many didn't get to see. the behind the scenes of volunteering, ceremonies, tension, and different military families. Before this project, I mostly encountered civilians (non-military members) who often talked about honor & glory or those who felt disgusted by acts of violence and condemned those who took part in said acts. When my husband got deployed my whole world was turned upside down and it completely shattered the small safe bubble I thought the world was. I never knew how sheltered I truly was until his deployment. At the time, I became slightly irritated by the surface level support. You know what I'm talking about, Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Veteran's Day...it's like when people complain about the occasional church goers who show up for the holidays only. Sure the facebook post of people on the lake having a great time with some beers saying "support the troops<3" is sweet...but it made my blood boil as I sat there staying up trying not fall asleep so I could at least hear from Zack. Military families and spouses/significant others struggle and so I did this series to show a simpler side but at the same time there's tension looming in these photos. The photos involving big groups were at a ceremony pre-deployment. Others were events or specific families and of course my loving husband. When I think back, I didn't want pity or some words like "wow tell him thank you!". I wanted someone to ask if I needed anything or if I wanted some help. As I've gotten older, I have noticed even just an offer of help can change someone's world no matter how different your experiences may be.
