Memorial Day
Honoring my husband SSgt Tyler Rogenski this Memorial Day. I was blessed to serve alongside such an incredibly smart, dedicated, and loyal Airman. Tyler is my testimony that love does exist in its truest and purest form. Tyler would come home from work and take his boots off, with the cats attaching themselves to his legs. He would patiently untie his shoes as the cats played with the strings. Another person might have gotten annoyed, but Tyler always saw beauty in being imaginative and playful. Peachyymaddi wouldn’t exist without Tyler as my first video was of thawing our frozen wedding cake and eating it. It went viral with almost 10 million views, and I gained a large following. Tyler encouraged me to follow my newfound dream, and here we are almost 2 million people later. Tyler was always there for me, and he was the ultimate best friend. When he first told me he loved me, it was said quietly as he walked away. He didn’t need to hear my answer, but he needed me to know he loved me. I loved him too, and proclaimed that the next time I saw him. He was stationed near my parents home in Maryland. One of my favorite love poems from Tyler goes like “Did not want to go, Big Blue sent me to Maryland, I met a girl with love in her eyes, She’ll be an Airman, and she’ll be the best of all time.” I was set to join the Air Force at the time on my own accord. I saw so much future. I saw vacations, my family laughing, babies crawling, glasses clinking. I don’t know how to let go of that dream enough to move on with Tyler being gone. When Tyler left this world, it was as if my Sun was put out, and my world was cold and dark. I’ve done everything I can to mend my heart, and grieve my husband. I now allow myself time to heal, until the memories don’t burn holes into the fabric of our love. I used to get excited for the pool to open on Memorial Day, and now I understand the full meaning of this day. It’s for Tyler, and every other service member who gave the ultimate sacrifice that we made an oath to uphold. Please take a moment of silence for all service members who died for our freedom today, like my husband, who made vast impacts during his service🇺🇸🙏🏼💕
Memorial Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a profound opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by our brave service members like SSgt Tyler Rogenski. Having experienced the military lifestyle closely, I’ve learned how those moments of everyday life—like returning home after a long day or sharing small joyful interactions—hold deep significance. Tyler’s patient and playful nature, seen even in simple acts like untying his boots while his cats played around him, shows the human side behind the uniform. These seemingly small memories become treasures that family members cling to during grief and healing. In my own experience supporting service members, I've found that Memorial Day often transforms from a day of celebration—like looking forward to pool openings or family gatherings—to a day of solemn remembrance. It’s a time to honor those who gave everything so others might live freely. Each story of a fallen hero, like Tyler’s, is unique, filled with personal dreams, love, and sacrifices that extend far beyond their service. One important part of remembering is sharing these stories, as peachyymaddi does with her viral wedding cake video that honors not just their love but also Tyler’s encouragement and unwavering support. These narratives help humanize military members and reinforce the importance of remembering their contributions in all shapes and forms—from the battlefield to family life. If you have someone in your life who serves or has served, take a moment this Memorial Day to truly appreciate their dedication and the often unseen personal battles they face. Whether it’s a quiet reflection, sharing a story, or simply a pause for silence, these acts of remembrance ensure that the sacrifices of heroes like SSgt Tyler Rogenski continue to inspire and remind us of the true cost of freedom.
Your story always brings me to tears. I remember that video and I’m so glad you kept making videos after his passing. It’s probably the hardest thing you’ll ever have to do. Everything else will feel easy afterwards. Know that you are seen and loved, and this internet stranger is very proud of you! ❤️