I need to give an update on the happy couple....so much has changed in their plans. Casey (my son-in-law) had a post lined up in Missouri but when he had not received his orders by late July, he called up a recruiter friend to see what he could find out. Turns out that since Casey was approved for disability after his last tour (he suffered substantial hearing loss and back injuries after being thrown onto a rockpile after a bomb exploded), the Marines aren't too interested in having him back active. If Casey wants back in, he has to rescind (sp?) his disability and go through physical re-testing. Since the physical standards are so high for the Marines, he feels quite sure that he would not pass the test, and be left with nothing. So, his current status is inactive Marine Reserves and both Danielle and Casey signed back up for classes (at least he can get his GI bill), and they both are now gainfully employed and staying put until Danielle finishes her degree at MSU (unless, of course, the military has other ideas....they technically "have" him until Jan. 2011).
I felt bad because Casey was very disappointed...he LOVES being a Marine, but on the other hand it is nice that they will be hanging around for awhile!