Troops, spouses renew vows

  • Published
  • By Air Force Staff Sgt. Zachary Wolf
  • JBER Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  "I believe in this marriage more strongly than ever. Sara, it is from experience and trust that I commit myself once again to be your friend, soul mate and your husband," said Sgt. Victor Arias, 725th Brigade Support Battalion, a transportation technician.

"Upon your return, we can go from a couple to a family. No one has ever or will ever hold on to my heart as you do," said Sara, Arias' wife.

Pre-deployment consists of many things; there are appointments for shots, weapon qualifications, re-certifications and more. One thing that Soldiers from the 725th BSB added to that list was renewing their vows.

Six couples gathered with friends and family in the Soldier's Chapel on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson on October 27. These couples decided to strengthen their bonds before the deployment to Afghanistan.

"I think it's definitely important to make the statement of faith and that pledge to your spouse, that you are still in love with them," said Army Capt. Christina Cogen, 725th BSB chaplain.

For some of these couples, it hasn't been the first deployment or first time they renewed their vows.

"It's like getting another wedding and doing something special before you leave," said Sgt. Nathaniel Russ, 725th BSB ground support equipment non-commissioned officer in charge.

"This is our fourth ceremony, three of which were before deployments," said Debra, Russ' wife.

The renewals also allow Soldiers to connect with those with whom they will be deploying and build camaraderie.

Something that helps before the deployment is seeing the other Soldiers here and how much they care for their family as we prepare to go into a warzone, said Sgt. Arias.

It's not just for the Soldiers, but also brings a connection for the spouses.

"You get to make new relationships that can help with the ... deployment because they have someone deploying too," said Sara.

"It's important to me to let her know that if something bad was to happen to me, that I do love her and I will always love her," said Sgt. Arias.