Proud to be an American...and have a soldier serving our country!

Today was bitter-sweet. I went to a graduation ceremony with Brig, and my cousin Tressa. Brig's cousin, Ben, and Tressa's boy, Tom graduated from Basic Training. It was an inspiring event. I realize that being a soldier is not for any sissy. I was moved by their desires to serve and what they were willing to give up, their personal identity, to join a unit which is truly a band of brothers. I had to give props to Brig - I missed that part of his life (having met him right after he graduated from OCS.) I got a call to repentance, of sorts. We are lucky to be in America and lucky to have willing men and women to fight for our country.

This afternoon, I attended Brig's Deployment ceremony. Brig stood at attention behind his Commander, as the battalion's s4 (the Supply Officer). If Max could talk, he would have said, "There's my daddy!" The prayer that was spoken was beautiful, although it was different than what I am use to. The Chaplain asked for two things - that God would go before their unit as a shield and banner, and that the soldiers would continue to keep their morals and sound judgement. The Brigade Commander spoke of courage and honor and that all would return home having bettered their lives and those whom they love. He asked families to better the communities and thanked the kids for being so brave at home. Brig has worked hard and prepared well for this and I am grateful to know I have such a good husband. I hope I remember these feelings throughout his time over there. I thank my Father in Heaven for the blessings I have.