To the Editor:

I have to echo the words of Command Sgt. Maj. Bill Wyllie that military wives make it all possible.

My wife Dorene raised our five children during our career, mostly by herself, while I tended to ships, submarines and weapons systems. Long cruises which always got extended, ship overhauls, constant training and shore jobs with many travel commitments left her alone with the kids more than most women would have tolerated.

She counted pennies to make ends meet long before military pay was much of a consideration. She paid the bills, kept us out of debt and always saved a little. She handled serious child medical issues and never complained. And when she demonstrated sustained superior performance, no one awarded her a medal!

I can confirm that she indeed had one of the toughest jobs in the U. S. Navy. I commend her for service above and beyond the call of duty.