March of 1986 was one of the proudest days of my life. It was the month that I graduated Basic Training at Fort Benning. Later Airborne school.
I was a young kid, and like most kids my age, I thought I knew everything. I looked at joining the Army as more of an adventure. Honestly, I wasn't looking at it as a means of serving my Country. Only later did I have this perspective, and understood the sacrifice.
This part of my life in many ways seems like another life. Many of the details have been lost with time. The memories that stand out most are those that center around the teamwork and camaraderie I experienced. Knowing that those around you were truly people you could trust. The bond between soldiers, is a bond never really recreated outside in the real world.
Today, I'm proud of my son Tyler, who spent two tours in Iraq, and my Son-in-law Preston who is currently serving in Afghanistan. I'm also proud of my father who served in Korea, and my Father-in-law who served in WWII and Korean. My Uncle who served in Vietnam and was injured in the process. I'm the second generation, of three, that has served this great Country, and feel honored to be part of an ongoing belief in self sacrifice.
To all that have served, this day is yours. Remember, very few can be honored by their Country on this day. You are all special, and everyone owes you a deep sense of gratitude.
