Welcome!
I'm new here myself, and a vet too. My general always takes a great deal of time to thank the FAMILIES of the soldiers, as we could not do what we do without the support from home, nor would we put ourselves out there without the joy of who we come home to.
Welcome. What do you mean you haven't served? You most definitely have since your Marine wouldn't have been able to serve without you handling absolutely everything while he deployed. I once wore the Army uniform but I am also a wife of an active duty soldier. He may be getting near his 30yr mark but one thing he has always said is it is a team. I just get the more comfortable duty spots (home). Thank you for your service to the country. I am also new to chickens and can't wait. Get mine mid Feb. Hope your new adventure goes well. Me, I am nervous and like you lurked on these boards for awhile before I finally started to post. I mostly post questions since I am learning everything I can. What kind of chickens are you getting? Did you already build your coop? Anyway, Welcome to Backyard Chickens and Enjoy!