Let's Be Honest..

Our job is not easy.  While our spouse is gone, we have to pick up the pieces and then become both mother and father during a time when the children just don't understand.  When my oldest would ask where his father was, I would NEVER say he was at work.  Due to the fact that when daddy would return I feared that my child would think the days he left for work were days that he was leaving for good, again.

Take the time to explain.  Children are much smarter and more understanding than we give them credit for.  I explained to my oldest that his father was thousands of miles away making sure we were safe by keeping an eye on the "bad guys".  He would ask other questions, to which I answered honestly. 

That being said, there is the rules of OPSEC.  OPSEC is simply "Operations Security".  Basically, it's making sure to not divulge information via Internet and/or telephone.  Any sensitive information could be used by the enemy to take initiative to endanger our loved ones.  No piece of information is worth your spouse's life, or his comrades'. 

Our job is tough.  We want to know everything that is going on, where they are, and what is coming up next.  We want to have an explanation for our children, our families, and ourselves.  But knowing such sensitive information could lead to something serious happening to our loved ones.  It is not at all worth the risk.

Imagine finding out your spouse was injured or killed via facebook.  Social networking has caused a problem with the military today.  There have been instances where a spouse, sitting at home, minding her business, found out via facebook her loved one was KIA.  All because his battle buddies decided to put the soldier's name with "RIP" on their status updates.  How cold and crass is that?? Let's remember, we're not the only ones involved in these wars.  We're not the only ones with spouses and loved ones over there.  Keep personal business to yourself.  Make sure to not divulge private information on the Internet.  I'd say keep your mouth shut, but it's better put, "keep your fingers still".