Why are so many military wives fat?

He’s a female fantasy; A muscular Marine, shirtless. His tight body glistening with sweat, gun over his shoulder as he fights for our freedom.

Just because a man is in the military, people assume he’s fit. And since he’s fit and beautiful, then his wife should be too, right? I mean, beautiful people marry beautiful people and make beautiful babies. (Sense the sarcasm here.)

Well, if that’s the case, then why are so many miliary wives are fat? At least that’s what one serviceman asked on Yahoo! ANSWERS.

When I first stumbled upon the thread, I thought it was hilarious. As a military wife myself, I see so many overweight wives shopping at the commissary with a basket full of unhealthy food and kids begging for candy.

One poster referred to these women as having “‘fat wife’ syndrome.”

Then I thought of all the overweight men and women who are active duty. Sure there are PT tests they have to pass. But many of them fail and have to go to required training.

And then I thought of all the overweight people in America.

I felt guilty for thinking the thread was funny. It was a huge generalization. And stereotypes are never good.

I couldn’t believe some of the superficial posts that were made:

“I have some seen some heifers in the military wife pool. I stay skinny and sexy, gives me a reason to stay happy and makes my hubby even more attracted to me over the years. I am still a size 0, like the day we met. I often represent my hubby when we are together in public or functions. No one wants to a fat, ugly wife. I don’t think these ugly/fat women realize the teasing men get behind their backs for ugly wives.”

It’s doesn’t matter about a woman being “skinny” and “sexy.” Fit and healthy is what is should be about. I’m a slender girl, but there are many more women out there that weigh more than I do that are far more fit than I am.

Still, posters pressed on with a very valid point; Military wives are representing our country, therefore, they should be fit and healthy.

I can’t say I agree with this wholeheartedly. I think everybody should be representing America. We’re a laughing-stock with an obesity rate higher than other countries. I’m sure many of you have seen the picture of a fat woman sitting down with her thong poking out and a skinny hottie with a thong poking out side by side labeled, “the main difference between Europe and USA.”

Step up and cut back, America, literally. Take pride in your body, like you do in your country.

I'm sure many have seen this picture. "We're a laughing stock with an obesity rate higher than other countries."