The saying goes that “separation makes the heart grow fonder,” but we don’t know if anyone can truly appreciate how difficult separation from loved ones can be more than a military family.
When a spouse in the military is deployed, families in all branches of the armed forces are split up for months or even years at a time. Families find ways to communicate even if this might be very challenging because of contemporary technology.
Families, however, excitedly anticipate their upcoming reunion because photos, video chats, and phone conversations don’t compare to being together in person.
The separation of a husband and wife during pregnancy is arguably the hardest thing that can happen. Navy Lt. Michael Lemmons had an eight-month tour of duty aboard the USS John C. Stennis. During this time, his wife Holly gave birth to a beautiful baby boy.
Every parent is aware of how difficult it is to put into words the first time they touch and see their child, but for Lemmons, this momentous occasion went unnoticed. After 8 months at sea, Lemmons could no longer contain himself as he reached land.
What sets Lt. Lemmons apart is his reaction to meeting his baby for the very first time. With the baby cradled in his arms, he turned to his wife and said, “He’s perfect. Thank you.”
Holly Lemmons wept as soon as she heard him express his gratitude since tears had already begun to gather in her eyes. Michael Lemmons knows that raising a family all by yourself is not easy because he was not present while she went through childbirth and took care of three kids, and he wanted to let her know as soon as possible how incredibly proud he is of her for doing this on her own. She knew she was doing a lot while her husband was serving the country, and all she wanted was acknowledgment.
Both Holly and Michael are parents to three kids: Samantha, the oldest, Michael Jr., and Hunter Ethan Lemmons, who was born to Lieutenant Lemmons’ wife while he was away on active duty. Duty always comes first in a military marriage. Lemmons was aware of the troubles he had caused his wife, so as his ship drew near the pier, he had two goals in mind.
Instead of spending his time at home relaxing after months at sea, he had a different plan. He planned to stay up all night with the baby to give his wife a break.
Both in word and deed, he proves that he knows what it means to be a great husband. Holly is one lucky woman.
Watch it here: Youtube/The World Surprise
Sources: Lovethispic, Amomama, Lifebuzz
