Food, fitness and communication

FRANCIS E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, WY, UNITED STATES

05.15.2018

Story by Airman 1st Class Abbigayle Williams 

90th Missile Wing

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” said Mahatma Gandhi.
First Lt. Luke Preslar, 320th Missile Squadron missileer, nods in agreeance with his wife, 1st Lt. Rachael Preslar, 460th Space Wing mission commander, while talking about their outlook on life.
The Preslars met while attending the Air Force Academy and hit it off during a night of blues dancing. After dating for nearly three years, the Preslars got married after graduation.
“We spent three years near each other, and it allowed us to go through the different phases of a relationship,” said Luke. “We learned to develop trust with one another and how to communicate.”
The communication skills built at the Academy has become an integral part of their relationship success. Though the Air Force works hard at stationing spouses together, Luke and Rachael are about 100 miles apart.
“Married couples ask us all the time how we do it, and honestly, communication is everything,” said Rachael. “Being separated is hard, but we are always in communication. Even when he is in the bunker, he takes time to call.”
Luke and Rachael understand the hardships new and old couples face when separated by distance for the first time. They have willingly opened their door to couples in a long-distance relationship and are available to talk.
“We are not perfect, but if anyone is ever in need we are always here to help,” said Rachael. “The first year was hard for me, but it has gotten better.”
They believe finding an outlet for relief is key while separated from a loved one. It makes the waiting more bearable. As for Luke and Rachael, they have found their outlet in fitness.
“Rachael was on the Junior Olympic team for archery, receiving a few medals. Luke is also very into fitness,” said Capt. Stephanie Konvalin, 90th Missile Wing commander’s executive officer. “He helps Airmen prepare for their PT test.”
Luke is able to visit with his wife at Buckley Air Force Base, CO, about once a month. They always make time to be active together, whether it’s at the gym or climbing a mountain. Although the Preslars are big into maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle, it does not stop them from traveling for good food.
“We’ve traveled to around 15 countries together,” said Rachael. “We went to Paris last year. It was great to be a tour guide for the group, but the food… the food was everything.”
Between maintaining an active lifestyle and enjoying good food around the world, the Preslar’s willingness to push through the tough days has allowed them to be mentors for other couples in a similar situation. And although they have overcome the adversity, they are still holding out hope to move to the same base soon, specifically Hickam, Hi.

• Date Taken: 05.15.2018
• Date Posted: 05.15.2018 18:22
• Story ID: 277134
• Location: FRANCIS E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, WY, US