My wife knew the risks when I deployed to Afghanistan, but she stuck with me anyway. When I came back injured and missing limbs, she stayed. And when I wanted to keep serving by running to represent Florida in Congress? She still stayed—because it’s who she is.

Across our country, military spouses—like Brianna—have to make incredible sacrifices, unselfishly responding to the call of duty, often relocating their lives and enduring long periods of separation, for family and country. And when the fighting stops and the troops come back, it’s the husbands and wives at home who care for our wounds, whether they be visible or invisible. When President Ronald Reagan established Military Spouse Appreciation Day in 1984, he astutely referred to them as volunteers who preserve the foundation of our nation, the American family. It’s a sentiment visible throughout our history, from the wives of the Continental Army to the spouses of today.

President Ronald Reagan, 1984

“Since the early days of the Continental Army, the wives of our servicemen have made unselfish contributions to the spirit and well-being of their fighting men and the general welfare of their communities.”

To Brianna and every spouse right now who is home praying for their loved one’s safe return: none of us could do it without your support and your love.

Today, we honor you.