I'm deployed in the Middle East, but my wife has an even more difficult job at home.

Memorial Day, a holiday that honors the sacrifices, service, and history of the men and women in the U.S. military, is actually the culmination of Military Appreciation Month. Designated by Congress over two decades ago, the month of May is an opportunity for Americans to show their gratitude to those who serve, have served, or have lost their lives for their country. But while many express thanks to members of the military both at home and abroad, many of us in uniform are thinking of another great service to our country – that of our military spouses.

I have been deployed in the Middle East for nearly a year – my longest time away from home, my two children, and my wife, Sarrah. While my fellow servicemembers and I face and overcome our own daily challenges in the field, I believe that our families and loved ones have a much more difficult job.