Hugs On The Home Front
A soldier's strength is often fortified by the military friendships that are forged on the frontlines. And back on the home front, an equally important bond frequently exists between those left behind to hold down the fort, as friendships bloom between military wives.
Army wife Angela Summers explained, "You need friendships, people to support you, people to talk to. So, it's very important."
Through all the deployments and moves, Angela has found constant comfort in the heart of her friend, Jill Lloyd Ball. "I can depend on her, lean on her, for any little thing that, that... any little problem that I have," Angela said. "She's there."
The women first met 11 years ago, while living at a base in Utah. Since then, they have seen lots of changes in their lives, good and bad. They talk a few times a week, but because of changes in location and life's demands, they haven't seen each other in nine years.
A desire to reunite face-to-face with her best friend prompted Jill to write to The Early Show and ask to be a part of the "Week of Wishes" series:
"I never asked someone for a wish before, but this one is important to me. Eleven years ago, I met my best friend, Ange. We were both military wives stationed at Doug Way Proving Ground, Utah. Since then, we both have moved all over. The last time I saw Ange was in 1994. She now lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and 7-year-old son Joshua, and 2-year-old son, Nicholas, and I live back here in Utah.
"In a few months, it will have been nine years since we've seen each other. We have grown especially close over the last two years, when I experienced a very messy divorce, and Ange was there for me 24/7. We talk several times a week, and I can't believe after all these years, we're still best friends.
"My wish is to see Ange. Just five minutes with her, and then a hug from the woman that has saved my life the last few years, would mean the world to me. I miss her terribly, and I just want to see her again. Thank you for your time. Jill Lloyd Ball."
Angela told The Early Show that she knew exactly how she's going to react upon seeing her friend. "First thing is just go and give her a big, long hug," she said. "Just to, you know, to give her a hug. Really would. And just tell her how much I've missed her."
We then surprised her by showing her the letter, and flew her and her kids out to Utah for a special reunion. What's first on the two friends' agenda? Lots of hugs, we're sure!