I served in the US Marine Corps in Vietnam from 1968 through 1970. My girlfriend of four years decided to leave me when I went overseas because she thought the odds of my coming back were not too good. I was 18 and heartbroken.
In 1969, I wrote to my aunt and asked her if she knew of any girls who might like to write me. My aunt passed on my information and address to Candy, a 15-year-old girl who lived in Illinois and had an older brother serving in the Navy. Candy and her mom started writing and sending me goodies. When I came back to the states in 1970 for a 30-day leave, I made it a point to meet this girl who been my pen pal for so long. I was overwhelmed with the reception that awaited me the moment I walked in the front door. I immediately felt as though I belonged; her family was great and so generous to me.
During the month I was home, Candy and I developed a close relationship, and then it was time to go back to Vietnam one last time. Candy continued to write to me, and when I returned, we married. She was 17, and I was 21.
That was 36 years, three kids, and one grandchild ago. In spite of my downfalls, she has remained at my side. By the way, as time went on, I realized that the aunt who had arranged our meeting was also a friend of Candy's family -- and that Candy and I actually used to play together as children.
I am now 57 and very glad that we have remained together; I wouldn't want it any other way.
