Veterans of our Indian Armed Forces are the Ex – Servicemen who have hung their uniform after their selfless duty & sacrifice towards the nation. They are the stalwarts who have retired at a young age as compared to the civilians. They are well groomed into leading a disciplined and mechanical life. They are polished and energetic, so very few like to sit at home without a job. They opt for a second career post retirement. The most important point for their ladies is to give space to their spouse. The bonding and relationship becomes stronger.
Their better halves are much younger by age & heart. After their exposure and experience of being a member of AWWA, they become broader minded, talented and experienced in various fields. They have seen the welfare of army wives and their families – be it families of officers, JCOs and other ranks. This has made them to be more helpful, considerate and more understanding in accommodating and adjusting to various situations.
They have don-ned several hats because they are multi tasked. They maintain a balance between work, home and personal life.
After their husband’s retirement at various stations, they settle down at places which suit the requirement of children or their aged parents. The excitement of moving from place to place and travel bug is all gone.
The family now plans a holiday to a place they have not been to. Earlier the annual and casual leave was kept in mind, and then a holiday was planned. These trips can be exciting, refreshing and families can come revitalized.
The veterans with their wives no longer have a fixed schedule unless some job keeps them busy. The routine is generally morning walks or Golf for few. Those who are sports freak join the gym, go for swimming or indulge in some outdoor games. The not so active officers play cards or bridge and ladies either join them in cards or join kitty parties.
The more caring ones join some NGO to do some social service and help the not so privileged ones. They go to slum areas to give talk on health, literacy, sanitation, family planning and money saving schemes.
In this way they make buddies and are social and interactive. This time permanent friends are made and not like station friends. Earlier when families moved out of station, friends lost contact and then with time they forgot them. Unless one is lucky to continue friendship with friends you have left behind.
Many veterans share household chores with their wives to minimize the boredom and drudgery factor. The role of being a veteran’s wife is tough yet rewarding.
Most important is to be supportive even when the journey is not always easy.
