Roots and Wings
I'm headed to Ft. Benning for Boy #3's graduation from Army boot camp. I wasn't exactly thrilled with his decision to enlist because my risk tolerance for my children is limited to bumps, bruises, and the occasional set of stitches, not combat boots and bullets.
But we raised them to dream big and go for it. And military service has always been a box Carter wanted to check. In high school, I encouraged him to finish college before enlisting, not-so-secretly hoping he'd graduate and change his mind. As soon as he graduated from college, he was chatting with recruiters and enlisted in the US Army Infantry.
Even if I wasn't dancing a jig of joy, I am awed by his devotion to principle and more proud of him than he could ever imagine. Our service men and women work harder and sacrifice so much more than most civilians can imagine. And it's hardly for the money, because I've seen the bank deposits. I can think of hundreds of jobs that require less blood, sweat, and commitment than the job of a soldier.
I can't fully explain why they do it, but I do know they're certainly the most special kind of humans.
Congrats on your son's graduation from boot camp. As a mom, I'd worry about my kid too. But it's great he's following his dream.
ReplyDeleteYeah, I should have clipped his wings and guilted him more. Just kidding. Sort of.
DeleteCongratulations on his graduation!
ReplyDeleteThe military does not get enough respect - or pay. It's not a job at that point. It's a total commitment. And the military owns you. As a military brat, I know the sacrifices those people make. Be proud of your son.
Service people amaze me. You're so right...it's not a job. It's a calling. Tell whichever parent who made you the brat that you are thank you!!
DeleteCongrats on his graduation. No one came to mine.
ReplyDeleteThis must be an especially scary time for family members of our service personnel, considering what's going on in Europe right now. At least he still has his MOS schooling to get through, right? And some of that takes longer than others. *prayers*
There was a young man there without family. My husband pinned his blue cord on for him and I gave him a hug. If I'd have been at yours, I'd have hugged you too. I felt like I should have hugged them all. Few people could or would go through what you guys go through.
DeleteHis next stop is Airborne training. Then something else with an S...then something else. If he makes it all the way through, he'll be training for 2 years. This will either have him training through the worst of it or well trained for when the lid blows off the world kettle.
Thank you, Donna, for your service. Sending you a cyber hug!!!
Congrats to your son. And I agree. Our military men and women deserve better compensation and care than they get.
ReplyDeleteIf only we were dictators...
DeleteI just finished your book About Us. The preview at the end about Shelley: is there a book ?
ReplyDeleteIt is in the works and coming soon! Thank you for asking!
DeleteNope. I remember my mother crying when my brothers and sister enlisted. She sent three of five to the military.
ReplyDeleteHe's an officer, right? Since he's got a college degree. Congrats to him and prayers that he'll be safe.
ReplyDeleteNo, he didn't want to go to officer training. He went infantry and is a specialist. His next stop is Airborne training.
DeleteYou've so much reason for pride. It IS unbelievable what they very thoughtfully risk, and how much of a burden they put themselves under daily. Congratulations to him and his parents.
ReplyDeleteI know it boggles my mind.
DeleteWe owe Carter a huge debt of gratitude. I'm in awe and so thankful for the young people that enlist.
ReplyDeleteHugs to you. I know being a mom of a serviceman is unnerving.
He gets embarrassed when people say that...I think because he's enjoying it and doesn't see it as a hardship/
DeleteDoes he know his assignment and location yet?
ReplyDeleteWe know the next stop is Airborne training at Ft. Benning
DeleteHave a wondrous weekend. I trust your son's training goes well.
ReplyDeleteHugs
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Congrats to your son for all he has and will accomplish, and congrats to you for raising such a wonderful son! I can't imagine what you must be going through, worrying. I pray that he will stay safe as he follows his own path.
ReplyDelete