" I did not know that if a member of a family serves, the whole family serves. I did not know that the spouses of our service members carry such a heavy load. "
- Mary Gauthier

This statement reflects an awareness gained about the broader impact of military service beyond just the individual soldier or sailor. The speaker realizes that when a family member joins the armed forces, it affects the entire household. Moreover, it highlights the often overlooked burden carried by spouses who support their serving partners in various ways.

The deeper meaning reveals the interconnectedness and sacrifices inherent within military families. It underscores not only the physical and emotional toll on service members but also extends to their loved ones at home. Spouses shoulder significant responsibilities such as managing households alone, supporting children’s education and well-being, and dealing with frequent relocations and separations due to deployments. This quote brings attention to the unsung heroes who play a crucial role in sustaining military families.

Mary Gauthier is an accomplished singer-songwriter known for her powerful narratives that often touch on themes of loss, addiction, and resilience. Her work frequently draws from personal experiences and societal issues, making her insights both poignant and relatable. This quote likely stems from one of her interactions with or observations about the military community, illustrating her capacity to capture and convey the profound impacts of service beyond what is initially apparent.