Long-term combat deployments can physically and psychologically affect military personnel and their immediate family members. During wartime, the United States Marine Corps operates on a seven-month deployment schedule with additional intermittent training exercises spread throughout an enlistees contract. Extended periods of time away from the family structure can cause psychological strain on an individual and their relatives. This series of images examines how the internal family structure operates during times of deployment by documenting the life of Sergeant John Falivene and his immediate family. Sgt. Falivene, an 0311-rifleman squad leader has served in Iraq, Haiti, and Afghanistan. The emotional toll of balancing deployments and home-life becomes a collaborative effort held together by a delicate rhythm. Over the course of four years this particular family found a pathway to navigate the balance while remained strong and dedicated to one another.
