Saying Goodbye (Deployment # 3)

Today was a sad day. The time has finally come and Zane has deployed once again. This is his 3rd time in the past 3 1/2 years and goodbye never gets any easier. Since this deployment is a MEU deployment, things were a bit different.  Most of the Marines and Sailors boarded the ship yesterday, but the last 9 phrogs were scheduled to fly onto the ship this morning. Since most families said their goodbyes at the pier in San Diego, there were just a few of us at the squadron. Nevertheless, the mood was still somber as ever and the time seemed to be ticking by so fast yet  at the same time, ever so slow. When it was time to say goodbye, Zane walked the kids and I to the car, helped me put them in, and said his goodbyes to Hunter and Cally. I know that was super hard for him to do. Luckily, Cally did not understand the true meaning of this deployment and was able to say goodbye to daddy without any crying. Her concept on time is not there yet which made it easier for all of us. Zane then turned to me and we said goodbye with a long embrace, a sweet kiss, and a few tears. Its so hard knowing he will be gone for so long, but I am still so proud of him and what he does. He is such an amazing man and I'm so lucky to be his wife.

Helping Daddy load up

"My daddy is my hero"

Cally and her friend Mikayla

Since they were flying onto the boat, the families all planned on heading to the beach on base to watch them flyover for the last time, but since the flyover wasn't going to happen for another few hours, some of the wives and I got together and had lunch while trying to pass the time and waiting to see our hubbies fly over us one last time.


When the time finally came, the moment was sad and exciting at the same time. All the families lined up along the beach waving their arms or signs in hopes that their marine would see them. As we watched the helicopters fly over, there were tears everywhere, but in the midst of all the sadness I also felt a huge sense of pride. What an amazing sight to see 9 phrogs in formation heading out to sea to protect and defend us, and our country.

 The USS Peleliu 

Heading out to sea

The deployment is scheduled to be approximately 7 months long but could be up to 10 months. In the meantime, I plan on visiting some old friends, heading to Colorado for a few months to spend time with family, and keeping busy with life. Two kiddos brings on new challenges, especially when you're doing everything alone, but I look forward to being as preoccupied as possible to help time go by.

Zane, you are an incredible man, husband, father, and friend. I can't wait for the day when you can wrap your arms around me and the kids again. Until then, I pray for your safety and think of you always. You are always in my heart and I love you more than I could ever tell you. Thank you for what you do, you are truly my hero.