To our friends and family,

Gabby and I met each other at the US Coast Guard Academy. We spent one year at school together exploring the North East before I received my commission and reported to CGC Bear in Portsmouth, VA. In this time, Gabby and I called many places home including New London, Rowley, Portsmouth and Miami. We traveled often to make sure we can see eachother whenever the opportunity presented itself. After going 5 months without seeing Gabby, she drove up to meet me in Boston where I concluded my first patrol in the Arctic waters of Greenland. One year later, Gabby was also given her commission and reported to the CGC Escanaba in Portsmouth, VA. Here, she sailed through the Panama Canal and passed the equator. Although we traveled far, the best days of our lives are those long awaited reunions. In our off time we have been able to explore everything Virginia has to offer. After being able to settle down and enjoy each other I knew it was time to solidify our relationship. I proposed to Gab in the Norfolk Botanical Gardens where luckily she said yes. We have now entered the next chapter of our lives planning for a long future as an engaged couple. Along the way we made lifelong friends and shared many unforgettable memories. We are blessed and fortunate for all of you who are able to attend our special day.

Thank you for being a part of our family and helping us kick off the beginning of our forever journey.

With kind regards,

Richie Rodriguez