My apologies to those of you that I've offended.. It was not my intention to do so. As usual, your comments are insightful and appreciated.
I cannot speak for her (although I've sent her this thread), but in all the time I've known her, she's been very proud to be a part of ANG and she's incredibly committed. She KNOWS that she's responsible, but that doesn't take away the very real fear. When she joined, I don't think she EVER imagined that she'd be deployed to Iraq. I believe that she joined with the impression that they would be generally assisting in "national" occurrences. She's married to a military man. I think she knows the drill. Is changing her mind because the situation isn't convenient okay? Not really. She acknowledges the same thing. But I question MY instinct to judge her. I've certainly been in enough situations in my life (at a lot less cost) where I've whined and lamented my course. Do I fulfill? Yup. Will she fulfill? Probably, yes, and I would guess, proudly too.
But you don't know, if you don't ask.
Now, if anyone out there has a topic they're scared to bring up, let me know. My body armor is getting really tough!
Best,
Mic