Sometimes the best love stories start with a growl.

We first met in 2021 at the Minnesota Department Convention. Chuck was part of the installation team that swore Sarah in as Department Commandant. At the time, we exchanged a few words here and there, mostly in passing at various Marine Corps League and MODD events. Nothing serious—just two dedicated Devil Dogs serving our packs.

It wasn’t until the 2023 National Convention that something changed. We had real conversations for the first time, and something just clicked. After that, we started talking regularly. By September, those check-ins had turned into daily chats, and by New Year’s Day 2024, we officially began our journey as a couple.

Exactly one year later—on January 1st, 2025—we got engaged.

From the League to the MODD, from brief hellos at events to heartfelt conversations, our connection grew out of shared service, mutual respect, and a love that snuck up on us when we least expected it.

Now, we’re ready to start our next chapter together, hand in paw, and we can’t wait to celebrate this next growl of life with all of you.