Tad and Cat met in 2020 through Michigan Technological University’s Air Force ROTC program. COVID didn’t spark any instant romance, but over time, they’d exchange friendly greetings in passing and light-hearted remarks during class. They moved from being friendly acquaintances to real friends when they both experienced what some might call the ROTC version of pledging a fraternity—a challenging but unforgettable bonding experience required to join a service organization. Summer passed, and the second year of college began. This is when Tad and Cat’s friendship grew stronger. Their entire ROTC class began sharing meals and spending countless hours being yelled at while preparing for Field Training. Nothing brings people closer than stressful situations! While Cat had a go-to girl in ROTC, Tad quickly became her right-hand man. Another Summer came and went, ushering in junior year—the turning point. By now, Tad and Cat were very close friends. They ate almost every meal together, exchanged knowing glances when someone said something ridiculous, and had genuinely great conversations. Tad developed feelings for Cat and tried to show it through small acts of kindness, like bringing Cat her favorite cookies (several times). But Cat, holding fast to her strict “no dating ROTC guys” rule, thought Tad was just living up to his group nickname: Mr. Nice Guy. The cookies didn’t do the trick, but sharing seats, being each other’s person, and having late-night talks after bar outings quietly laid the foundation for something more. That summer, Tad sent Cat a few sweet “just checking in” texts. Then came senior year—what some might call the climax of the story. By now, Tad and Cat were dorm neighbors, which meant even more time together, daily inside jokes, and a shared cup of coffee every morning. The year was filled with deep conversations, countless cribbage games, and nightly debriefs about the day. One night in March, during one of those debriefs, Tad finally said it: despite her “no ROTC dating” rule, he wished he could take her on a date. Cat, already thinking of Tad as more than just a really, really good friend, replied: “The only limitations are the ones you put on yourself.” Spurred on, Tad asked her out. Cat's answer? "Not now." ...followed by: “Wait and ask again next year.” They spent the rest of the year growing even closer—carrying the quiet promise of a future date. That summer, Tad and Cat texted every single day and talked on the phone for hours. Little did they know, this was perfect training for the long-distance relationship ahead. Both had one extra semester at MTU. During that time, they finally went on their first official date—and Tad didn’t waste a moment before asking Cat to be his girlfriend. They were happy, their friends (who had long suspected something was going on) were thrilled, and life was amazing. Then came graduation, and with it, distance. Tad and Cat were stationed on opposite sides of the country—one in Tacoma, the other in Boston. Despite the miles between them, they stayed happy. Thankful for all the virtual games and date ideas COVID had made popular, they kept the connection strong. Soon they celebrated their one-year anniversary—and later on, 5 years after meeting each other, their engagement! Even though the situation wasn’t ideal, they cherished every moment, knowing it was—and still is—all part of God’s plan. UPDATE: The Air Force has moved Cat to Washington!