Julia and Tom knew of each other through friends during their start in Monterey, California. She was interested in the guy with a mustache she saw every Monday morning in formation and was impressed when he knew what song the lyrics tattooed on her arm was from. All it took was a bonfire on the beach on the Fourth of July, a day trip to San Francisco, and some long weekend trips with alcohol to make them realize they were more than friends. They were fortunate enough to spend the next year together during the rest of training in California, Texas, and Washington. However, in early 2019, they were separated across the country by duty commitments. That didn't stop their journey as a couple and are so excited to finally start their life together in one place.

Tom and Julia thought a trip to get away from work was important. There were lots of options, but they have never been to Nashville, so they decided to go there for a long weekend. On October 13th, a Sunday, they started the day by getting brunch (complete with cold brews and a literal pint of a mimosa) and touring Oktoberfest. They made their way to Centennial Park to check out the replica Parthenon and took a walk around the pond. They found a little secluded part to sit on the rocks and watch the ducks. And that's where Tom proposed--sitting right besides Julia. It was simple, private, and perfect.