I grew up in Davenport, Iowa, and attended college in Denver, Colorado. I still had that desire to travel and accepted a position at General Dynamics in San Diego after graduation. I was soon introduced to the military culture here and was impressed by their devotion to the nation. Yes, I married an Army veteran who I met here in America's Finest City. Over the years, I have met active duty and am wowed by the spouses who keep the home fires burning while their spouses are deployed. I am always pleased to meet the retirees who have made San Diego area their home. They are patriots and have helped to make San Diego a great place for my children and grandchildren.