New way of life

Ever since I went to the military ball last spring I have realized that the military has its own customs and way of life. However, I don't think I realized how much I really had to learn until this past weekend, when I was trying to help Nathan get ready to leave for Missouri on Friday. We went to Ft. Carson here in Colorado Springs to try and get some of the paperwork done for Germany and Missouri, buy uniforms, etc. One of our first stops was the clothing and sales store, while Nathan was trying on uniforms I started looking at all of the signs and realized all of the specifications when it comes to washing uniforms. Apparently, the ACUs, the camo/everyday uniform, has some kind of flame protectant or something on it, so per the clothing store do not iron, do not dry and do not use any kind of detergent that has a brightener in it. All I could think is maybe Nathan might have to do his own laundry in Germany, I would be too scared of not using the authorized detergent or something. Then we tried to go talk to the transportation office about setting up our move to Germany, as we walked from the parking lot over to the building I tried to hold Nathan's hand, apparently that is a big no no in the Army when in uniform, I didn't know though. Nathan was very kind in telling me to let go, but still made me question what else I am not supposed to. I mean I want to be there to support him, but I also don't want to get him into trouble. So then I started thinking there should be an official Army manual to guide those in supporting their soldiers, they have official manuals for everything else why not for the women (and men) that support the soldiers. I am sure I will have lots to learn as time goes on, I only hope I do the best job I possibly can in supporting Nathan.