Would you walk in their boots?

My son, a Specialist in the United States Army wakes everyday in a foreign place. Washing his face, slipping into his required uniform to face the unknown everyday.  Working amongst his fellow peers sometimes until late at night, he is tired but has to finish.  Marching in the woods, sleeping in the rain, cold, no showers but still he must finish.  A shower is a luxury, to have a warm meal is sometimes not available but he must move on. This is the life he chose, I didn't expect it that cold November day when he spoke of his plans. He was only 17 when he left, a boy - my boy. Its been three years and it never gets easier to know he isn't close by, I cant see his face or here his voice, but I know he must finish.  He must finish what he started, after all its his path.  Some days are harder for him and for me, but I will put on my Army strong smile and support his decisions, I must support his finish. I am proud of my son, he selfless demeanor, courageous soul and connection with his family are the best qualities I could of hoped for in a son. He always exceeds my expectations and I  am lost for words but full of joy when I see him. 

There is only a small percentage of men and woman that are qualified to join our military and my son in one of them. A true hero is a person that puts their country, peers, community and self before others....I am blessed to say "My son is MY hero".....He doesn't wear a cape, you don't see him in a movie but he is there.....defending our country, putting his required uniform on everyday facing the unknown.....


                               Would you walk in his boots?

I am the mother of an American Soldier. I give my complete and unwavering support to my soldier. As my son serves the people of the United States, so I humbly offer up prayers for his safety and the safety and health of those he serves beside.
I respect his choice to adhere to a strict moral code and a system of values that has preserved our country for over two centuries. I accept that my soldier's first duty is to his country and I understand that this sacrifice he willingly makes is what keeps our nation great.
I will never expect anything but the best from my soldier, for I know that he is capable. I know that a soldier's heart is true and strong, and that my soldier will endure.
I will never abandon my soldier, my son, my love. I will love him unconditionally. He will know I am there with him, even when he is alone.
I am disciplined, emotionally and mentally tough, learning to wait for phone calls and letters or emails home. I, like my soldier, am an expert.
I stand ready to do whatever I can to let my son, my soldier, know that we are here for him, behind him, we love him and I will pray for the swift destruction of the enemies of our country. I am the person who stood guardian of this man who has become my soldier, now our Guardian of Freedom and the American way of life.
I AM THE MOTHER OF AN AMERICAN SOLDIER!

I wear no uniform, no dress blues or army greens. But I am in the military among the ranks rarely seen. I have no rank upon my shoulder. Salutes I do not give. But the military is the world in which I live...for I am the mother of a Soldier.