Connect How did your love story begin?

We met at MEPS in Seattle. I was preparing to deploy, and Jenae was there supporting her twin sister, who was enlisting. One unexpected conversation turned into hours of talking. Even when Afghanistan separated us for the first year of marriage, our connection never faded. Letters, late-night calls, and faith kept us close. Fourteen years later, we’ve built a family, a business, and a love that continues to grow.

What is your favorite memory you've shared as a couple?

After a year apart during deployment, stepping off that plane and seeing Jenae waiting with tears streaming down her face is a moment forever etched in my heart. That first embrace felt like finally coming home after being apart for so long. In that instant, we knew no amount of distance, time, or hardship could ever break the bond we’d built. It was the start of the life we promised each other—a love that has only grown stronger ever since.

What would you do with $20,000?

We’d finally take our kids on the family adventures we’ve always dreamed of—exploring new places and making memories they’ll cherish forever. We’d also invest in our veteran-owned small business(Zehmtv.com) to help it grow and create more security for our future. This blessing would ease the stress of financial worries, allow us to give back to our community, and celebrate how far our love and hard work have brought us together.