Holly Vega, Marine Corps Spouse

“I didn’t retire.  I’m still going.” This statement, made by Holly Vega, wife of a USMC veteran, shows that the motto “Semper Fidelis” or “Always Faithful” applies not just to Marines, but also to their spouses. 

For most, retirement means closure, but for Holly, whose husband recently retired after nearly three decades of service, this is where, in her words, her journey begins.  After spending 25 years moving every 2-3 years, Holly is looking forward to having her own career and also focusing full time on the non-profit she co-founded with Kaprece James officially in 2019, “Military Hearts Matter.’

Holly, whose life has been one of faithful service too, was recognized as the 2019 AFI Military Spouse of the Year for the Marine Corps and also the overall 2019 AFI Military Spouse of the Year.  A seasoned spouse and one who has a unique gift of connecting with everyone she meets with genuine care, below she shares with us thoughts for new spouses and soon-to-be/newly retired spouses.

For New Spouses

If there is something you are wanting to do, do it! Even if you cannot do it to 100%, start it–and then finish it later! Don’t doubt yourself!

For Well-On-The-Journey Spouses

This life is not just for anyone and you are very special to be in it! 

If we have helped one, we have done something! 

Bloom where you are planted–that is great–but it is more important to sprinkle seeds that continue to grow after you have left!

For Soon-To-Be or Newly Retired Spouses

You are not alone.  Surround yourself with other retired spouses–and laugh about the stories because there are some doozy! 

Retirement is hard.  This is the only thing you have known.  It has been your life. 

You get to figure out who you are and what you want to do!

And for all our spouses, Holly also shared that “once a spouse, always a spouse.” To which we respond, “Semper Fidelis, Holly,” as a thank you, a motivation–and as a connection and unity between spouses of yesterday, today, and tomorrow.