Derek and I met March 14th 2011.
The night we met, I knew he was the one.
I felt something so strong for him.
May 15th 2011, Derek and I found out we were expecting!
He was there through everything, from the weird cravings, to the no sleep, to the big belly getting in the way all the way to the pains of labor!
He even stood there proud and tall through my delivery, by my side, and he wouldn’t leave.
Our son, Aydin, was born January 9th, 2012.
Of course, as any parent would know, it was the best day of our lives.
2 weeks after our son’s birth, Derek and I got married(January 20th 2012).
Second best day of my life.
We didn’t have a wedding, and didn’t think we needed one. It was a special moment for us to share with our child. And doing so as a family, not worried about anyone but us.
A couple weeks had went by, and the day we all dread came up.
Deployment day. March 27th 2012.
I remember it like it was yesterday. On the way to base, there was nothing but silence. Tears fell from my eyes, but a word I couldn’t speak.
As we arrived, he told me he’d be right back that he was carrying his things in and he’d be back to say goodbye.
I told him it wasn’t goodbye, it was see you soon.
He came running back out of the building, almost tackling me. Hugged me so close. His heart raced and tears fell from his eyes.
He told me, ” I love you, be careful, email me everyday and pictures!” “I’m missing our baby boy growing up, please don’t forget me”
I told him he was crazy, I’d never forget him.
I loved him, to keep his head low and his heart high.
And to come home to me soon! We kissed and said our goodbyes.
My best friend left me that morning, never to return.
2 weeks went by, April 11th, 2012.
I read an article online saying an Osprey Crashed in Southern Morocco. 2 marine officers killed, 2 marine pilots injured.
I knew it was Derek, Derek was dead. I had this feeling in my stomach I just couldn’t take it.
About 6 and a half hours later, I had just drifted off to sleep when I heard a knock at my door.
I knew who it was, but I still asked “who is it”
I heard GY SGT (so and so) may we please come in.
I opened the door, gasped and screamed out “NO!!!!”
Derek was dead, and I knew.
I let them in, and all I can remember from that night is “We regret to inform you.”
I was numb, I couldn’t stop crying hysterically. All I could think about was my beautiful baby boy, he was only 3 months old, I’m only 18, Derek was only 21. We were only married 10 weeks, we were only together a year, our marriage didn’t even have a chance. How was I supposed to raise our son on my own!?
I didn’t know what to do.
I’m only 18, Derek was only 21. We were only married 10 weeks…

We’re Too Young For This
Derek and I met March 14th 2011.
The night we met, I knew he was the one.
I felt something so strong for him.
May 15th 2011, Derek and I found out we were expecting!
He was there through everything, from the weird cravings, to the no sleep, to the big belly getting in the way all the way to the pains of labor!
He even stood there proud and tall through my delivery, by my side, and he wouldn’t leave.
Our son, Aydin, was born January 9th, 2012.
Of course, as any parent would know, it was the best day of our lives.
2 weeks after our son’s birth, Derek and I got married(January 20th 2012).
Second best day of my life.
We didn’t have a wedding, and didn’t think we needed one. It was a special moment for us to share with our child. And doing so as a family, not worried about anyone but us.
A couple weeks had went by, and the day we all dread came up.
Deployment day. March 27th 2012.
I remember it like it was yesterday. On the way to base, there was nothing but silence. Tears fell from my eyes, but a word I couldn’t speak.
As we arrived, he told me he’d be right back that he was carrying his things in and he’d be back to say goodbye.
I told him it wasn’t goodbye, it was see you soon.
He came running back out of the building, almost tackling me. Hugged me so close. His heart raced and tears fell from his eyes.
He told me, ” I love you, be careful, email me everyday and pictures!” “I’m missing our baby boy growing up, please don’t forget me”
I told him he was crazy, I’d never forget him.
I loved him, to keep his head low and his heart high.
And to come home to me soon! We kissed and said our goodbyes.
My best friend left me that morning, never to return.
2 weeks went by, April 11th, 2012.
I read an article online saying an Osprey Crashed in Southern Morocco. 2 marine officers killed, 2 marine pilots injured.
I knew it was Derek, Derek was dead. I had this feeling in my stomach I just couldn’t take it.
About 6 and a half hours later, I had just drifted off to sleep when I heard a knock at my door.
I knew who it was, but I still asked “who is it”
I heard GY SGT (so and so) may we please come in.
I opened the door, gasped and screamed out “NO!!!!”
Derek was dead, and I knew.
I let them in, and all I can remember from that night is “We regret to inform you.”
I was numb, I couldn’t stop crying hysterically. All I could think about was my beautiful baby boy, he was only 3 months old, I’m only 18, Derek was only 21. We were only married 10 weeks, we were only together a year, our marriage didn’t even have a chance. How was I supposed to raise our son on my own!?
I didn’t know what to do.
5 thoughts on “We’re Too Young For This”
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My heart goes out to you.. I was only thirty, and had just given birth to twins,,, which made me have five children… now no Dad.
So I know how you feel… I was numb for a long time, but the kids are all grown now, with families of their own. I wish you well, and you can do. Just believe in yourself, and believe in God.
Mechele, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I was 19, my husband Bruce, a Marine, was 18 when he was killed in Vietnam. As you walk your personal life journey, know that you are not alone. Those words, those horrible words…”We regret to inform you…” connects us at heart level. When we read or hear those words we recognize that moment and always will. Even through all our differences those words create an immediate bond that connect us at heart level. Please stay in touch and share your walk with us as you find your balance in life. Much love to you and your son and thank you again for sharing Derek with us. <3
Praying for you during this difficult time for you.
Mechele — I was only 26 when my husband who was in the Navy died in Vietnam, leaving me with four children to raise alone. I persevered went back to school got my degree and went to work and managed to raise four adults whom are an asset to society. It’s hard I spent many nights crying myself to sleep and honestly after all these years that some times still happens when I think about what my Bobby missed out on by not seeing his babies grow up. I’ve never remarried and I just wanted to say even though it will not be on your mind now, please don’t make that mistake. Go on with your life I know that is what your husband would want you to do. My kids are raised and I am now 58 years old and while my life is active I am alone.
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