How to tell parents you’re engaged???

I don't think there's an easy way around this. Prepare for the worst to be thrown at you - not only are they "giving away" their daughter to a man, but you're also moving to another country. Just remember that's a lot to take in as a parent. But 4 years is a reasonable time to date before getting married, so if you're in a healthy and happy relationship, they should be happy for you in the end. You'll just have to sit them down, explain that he proposed and tell them how much their support means to you. However, if your family is traditional at all, be prepared for them to be a bit upset that he didn't ask them for your hand in marriage. I think that's what my parents would be the most upset at in this situation. Wish you luck!

Melanie has many valid points- it’s a lot for a parent to take on but you’ve been in a long term relationship so I’d assume it’s to be expected. Be prepared for the worse.

I mean, with him being the the military you will have to move away eventually... My mom was very upset with me moving too around with my husband.

View Quoted Comment That’s true. And a good way to look at it. My mom doesn’t always deal with things well, but I think she’s expecting this. Just waiting for me to say it. Doesn’t make it any less nerve racking though! Thanks for your help!

Prepare for a possible undesirable reaction but hope for the best

It’ll be hard but necessary. It may help to write down and practice what you’ll say and end with a desired outcome such as, “mom, I’m so scared and excited about this step in my life and really hope you’ll support me.” Something that might prompt a positive reaction or at least a hug.

View Quoted Comment Melanie is right just be prepared.

Stay ready so you don't have to get ready! As long as you're happy and grown,you're mom,should have you're best interest at heart.
Make sure to come back with an update..

We moved cross country right after getting engaged and while our parents were supportive I actually got this kind of reaction from my grandma. "You're taking my only granddaughter away" "I don't know when I'll see her again" etc and she referred to my FH as "that boy who took my girl away" for awhile. It was heartbreaking and difficult but over the year that we've lived here she's come around (she had met him before and likes him) and made peace with my move. So if that happens just remember it takes some people time to get used to the idea and while it might be unbelievably rough for awhile just make sure you stay in contact and everything will ease up eventually. It's always okay to take a break from conversation if it's too hard and to come back and let them know that you understand why they feel that way but that you really need them to support you. If this is something you've planned for a long time they shouldn't be that surprised.