It is different with you, of course, and I feel fiercely protective. Even though we both know I’m sentimental and an old softie now, I still was not prepared for the wave of emotion that threatened to choke me the day you boarded the plane to leave for basic training. I’ve always had the mindset of the all-volunteer force, you know: “If no one volunteers, where will our country be?” But I will admit that there are times when dark thoughts hit me in the quiet hours of the night. The military has my husband-does it need my child, too? With all the policy changes lately, is this a good decision for you and your wife? What about my future grandchildren? Will the military be good to you all? Is it worthy of you?
I hope so.
I remember envying people who grew up in the same town their whole lives, surrounded by extended family, stepping into the family business. It’s easy to idealize what you’re not living, but there were times I wished my children could feel that same grounding.
I remember a grown man-you-telling us that you wanted to make a difference, that you needed a purpose. That the experience provided by the military was something that appealed to you.
When I think about the future of our armed services, I recognize it will only be as good as its newest recruits, and so I am proud that you have chosen this path. The military needs you. Your country needs you. And you have answered that call.
We are on our way out in a handful of years…but you are just beginning.
And I guess, in a way, you actually did go into the “family business.”
And we couldn’t be prouder of you.
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