You have someone. Someone you consider a companion. A spouse. A soulmate. They are 13 hours away. You hear from them far and few between, not knowing when the next call will come through. 

Your special someone can’t tell you what they are doing, because telling you could be costly. People tell you “I don’t know how you do it,” or “It will never last.” People ask how you are but won’t actually understand what it’s like because they aren’t living it. But that person, your person, your rock is the light. When they are present and with you in the flesh and the time you spend together is so precious — that’s what keeps you sane and connected. 

Therefore, military relationships do work out in the end.

 Carly Erisman, a senior communication/journalism student at Shippensburg University, has been living this lifestyle for the past month and still has about eight left to go. Her fiancé, Juan Grazette, a military police officer in the Army National Guard, started his military career in July 2017 when he left for basic training. 

“This [basic training] was harder just because he was limited with communication. He was only allowed to use his phone when the officers would give them their phones,” Erisman said.  She explained that her fiancé now has more leeway with using his phone, but it is still hard to talk. With a 10-hour time difference and Grazette not always having access to Wi-Fi, it makes it hard, but Erisman looks forward to their conversations. 

 Jamon Campbell, a social psychology professor at Shippensburg University, said that while traditional relationships are more likely to last compared to long distance relationships, “a strong bond to begin with,” helps strengthen the relationship.

 Erisman reiterated Campbell in her interview saying that “if you are with the right person, you can conquer anything.” She added that while having a significant other in the military is hard, it is worth it in the end. When he finally comes home, the time they have together is bittersweet.

Share