LORINA + ANDREW: WEDDING

It had been 4 months since they had last seen each other.  Lorina decided to spend the summer in Midland with family while Andrew finished his tour in Afghanistan. The plan was for them to marry during Andrew's 2 week leave in Midland. After his tour they would go back to Alaska and enjoy life as a married couple.

His flight from Afghanistan was due to land in Midland on Tuesday (after many hours of travel and several layovers). He arrived to Dallas on Monday but the next flight to Midland wouldn't be until Tuesday. Fortunately, Andrew's friend was driving to Midland for a job and was able to give him a lift.

She waited and waited for a call, a text, something to ensure he arrived in town safely. "He should have been here by now," she told me as she attempted to  call him again. Then her phone rang but it wasn't Andrew, it was his friend. Andrew had been in an accident about 75 miles outside of Midland.

While trying to assist an injured pedestrian on the highway, Andrew was struck by a vehicle and broke his leg.

She rushed to the hospital to meet the helicopter there that carried her love. She stayed by Andrew's hospital bed  day and night until his release.

Despite the circumstances, they decided to continue with their nuptials. On the day of Andrew's release, they were married. In the hospital chapel. And became one. To support one another through any obstacle. I can't think of a better way to begin a solid, loving marriage.
Congratulations Lorina and Andrew. I'm thankful to be able to see your love grow before me. I love you, big sister. And thank you, Andrew, for your service to our country.  I'm proud to call you my brother-in-law :)