Spangahlem newlyweds spend honeymoon deployed to Romania

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Eric Petosky
  • 323rd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
CAMPIA TURZII, Romania --  A month ago, Airmen 1st Class Benjamin and Vallan Wiest were saying "I do" in a civil marriage ceremony near Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. Now, the newlyweds are spending their honeymoon in tent city.

Both Airmen are deployed to the 404th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron here in support of Operation Noble Endeavor.

Vallan, who is a food services journeyman with 404th EABS services, said it's not the most romantic setting, but the couple tries to spend as much time together as their work schedules allow.

"I work (2 a.m. to noon), and Benjamin works days, so depending on how tired I am, I'll wake up for what we call a date night," she said. "Since we can leave base, we'll go out for dinner downtown, or watch movies on our laptop at the dining facility. It's quite the adventure - kind of like dating in high school, except our NCOs are the parents."

Vallan and Benjamin try to spend at least an hour together every day. They talk about their work day, vent their frustrations or just enjoy each other's company.

"It's nice to have the same person who you talk to at home on deployment with you," said Benjamin, a structural apprentice with the 404th EABS civil engineers. "I don't have to worry about her, or being able to reach her - she's right there and I can go bug her whenever I want. I love her so much. I don't know what I would do if I couldn't talk to her everyday."

Benjamin said he and Vallan are going to try and make a weeklong trip to Paris when they get back to have a proper honeymoon. Until then the couple will continue their routines and try to make time for each other.

"He's my best friend," Vallan said. "I'm very thankful to have him here. Imagine trying to explain this to your spouse back home. When I vent, he knows exactly what I mean. I have him, and he has me. I feel lost when he's not around."