We first crossed paths at the Marines Officer Selection Team in 2018. Both of us had our own reasons for walking into that recruiting office and we were determined to see the process through. After gaining leadership billets, Nick and I became close friends in a short time. Nick originally was supposed to be in the Summer Officer Candidate School while I was selected to go in the Fall. Nick's package was pushed to the fall where we would both attend Officer Candidates School (OCC 232). A month before OCS, we started dating. All thanks to you GySgt Seitz ;) thanks for introducing us!

During OCS we were not allowed to talk to the other platoons, let alone break formation to make eye contact. We found each other during church services and passed notes of encouragement to read after "lights out". We read the notes with our red lenses. Nick often wrote of how he would catch me sleeping during class (they heated the rooms and I could not stay awake for the life of me). OCS was interesting because everyone had different strengths and weaknesses. You either struggled mentally or physically. Or you didn't struggle at all (I hate you). Before every fitness test I would be anxiety ridden, worried of being dropped out of OCS if I failed. Nick would find me every time in the crowd and tell me it was going to be okay. Every morning I prayed to Baby Patrick to get me through another day. He answered with the most beautiful sunrises and fall days. After 10 weeks, Nick and I graduated OCS.

Our journey continued through The Basic School where new challenges were given to us daily. I was in 5th Platoon and Nick was in 4th Platoon. We moved in different circles with challenges to work through separately. Through the lack of sleep, stress from exams, writing orders, and the physical demands of being a Marine Officer, Nick and I were lucky enough to have each other to reach out to. He tore his knee in December and spent the next 6 months avoiding medical so he would not get rolled to the next class. After making it through almost 6 months of TBS, it was the day we would find out our MOS (Military Occupational Specialty). I was thrilled to get the same MOS as my SPC, Communications Officer. Nick was concerned when he got his. He texted me "I got 0602... going to 29Palms". Little did he know we got the same MOS.

After graduating TBS, Nick and I attended Marine Corps Communications Electronic School (MCES) where we would be in 29 Palms for a year. Comm School was awful, and I hated 29Palms. It was hot, there were rocks and sand everywhere (looked like cat litter mountains) and Nick per usual, had a great attitude all the way through and kept me level. ;) One great thing that came from 29palms was adopting our German Shepherd, Maverick. Who proceeded to eat all of my shoes, clothes, and left Nick's jesus shoes (birkenstocks) unscathed. OH.. I also adopted 2 kittens without telling Nick. Welcome to the farm.

Nick and I then graduated and got stationed at Camp LeJeune together where we would start our Fleet tours. We each started our journeys of being Marine Corps Officers and have had our share of ups and downs. Through every step we have had each other to fall back on. We have had each other to celebrate all of the victories and be there for each other during the losses. One thing is certain, we will always Remember The View.

We thank everyone who has been a part of our journey, especially our family, we would not be here without you all. Nick also said to call this "BatMan" wedding. I said #$%! no.