One important point to remember is that if you are directly emailing someone who is serving overseas, your emails could be screened be screened before they are received though that is not always the case. Certain information that you might inquire about, such as where they are located, what they did during their day, etc., might be sensitive information that cannot be shared. This doesn’t mean the person is trying to lie, be sneaky, or not open up to you; some information is simply classified. As much as they may want to tell you exactly what they do while deployed, it’s better to keep emails focused on other topics besides their military work.
Depending on how close you are to your online military man or woman, you may want to progress your relationship to the next level by sending care packages or letters to them while they are away from home. Getting mail is always appreciated, since it will not only show that you are thinking of them, but also give them a little taste of home. Photographs, snacks, books and games are just a few of the items you could include in your package or letter. Then there will be something for them to look forward to for the next time they have a moment to relax.
Cherish the time you have to talk on the phone together (whether via Skype, Yahoo or a non-intent phone line), because once your boyfriend or girlfriend deploys you won’t get to talk to each other very often. Phone call frequency and duration really just depends on where they are deployed, how long they are going to be gone, and what type of living facility they are in. Someone who is spending a few weeks in Europe is going to have a much different situation than someone spending a year in Afghanistan. Regardless of where they deploy, it is always easier for them to contact you rather than the other way around. The time of day might not be your typical chat time, but it will be worth it to hear their voice again.
Dating online does sometimes lead to miscommunication, so be careful how you phrase things since the person cannot see your face (unless you’re using a web-cam). Also, tone can often be misjudged in emails and instant messages. Some jokes or bits of sarcasm just don’t come off as well without being spoken.
Always be very clear of your standing in the relationship, since some people might take a steady flow of emails as meaning something significant, while someone else considers it just flirting. Some people may be especially emotional or vulnerable depending on what type of environment they are working in. Being away from home makes some individuals cling to the first person who shows kindness towards them and gives them a piece of “home.”
Overall, dating members of the military online isn’t much more difficult than dating someone who works in the civilian world. With long-term deployments to war-zones being the exception, most of the time you can email, Facebook, instant message, or call via Skype or another online phone service with ease. If you have a webcam, you can even see the person live while you talk together. With all the recent advances in technology, online dating is simple and opens up your dating options to those far beyond your city.