The graduation has past, parties are over, and the countdown begins. One week from today our oldest son, Dustin, leaves to start a new chapter in his life. He will be on his way to Fort Sill, OK for basic training for the U.S. Army. If someone had told me 18 years ago that this time would come, I would have laughed. Not because I didn't already know that Dustin was meant for great things, but because he was so little and hero's were stories in comics and movies. When he wore his first camouflage, it was cute. Waving the American flag at a July 4th parade was what every other kid did. Shooting his first gun was exciting to a family whose life revolves around hunting and fishing. Today all those things hold an entirely different meaning. Camouflage has become a uniform of honor. The flag is more then a symbol, its a passion. Aiming a gun is more then just a skill. It is the difference between life and death. Men and women who wear camo, shoot guns, and defend the flag and what it stands for are true hero's. Is it easy for the family, friends, and loved ones? Not in the least bit. Is it hard for Dustin? Yes, extremely. Probably more then anyone could understand.
In the recent weeks, this little town of Beaverton, Mi. has shown more love and support for my 18 year old son then I could ever imagine or payback. Some might say, we have given it too much attention. They might even say we act like he is special and can do no wrong. Believe me he is far from perfect. As for being special, I think that any man/woman that chooses to make his job defending this country special. They should all receive this kind of love and support for keeping us safe, as should their families and communities. Which brings me to the thought of what this day stands for and how much so many sacrifice (past, present, and future) for this great country. It is a big cost to them and their loved ones. It's not just the ones who are lost, but the ones who are still with us. Whether they choose to cook of be on the front line. They give of themselves 24/7. It's not just a 9-5 job. Dustin's MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) is Fire Support Specialist. No, it has nothing to do with putting out fires (link to description: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Q6deL63YEM). Which is exactly what I thought, until he set me straight. I will just say that it is not what every mother wants to hear her son is going to be doing for a living. It's scary. So scary, in fact, I get choked up when I try to explain it. However, this is what he choose. Yes, there were safer options. But this is what he wants (a little hard to swallow) to do. Paul and I have never preached to our children about becoming doctors or lawyers. We only asked that whatever they choose to do is what makes them happy. That they can sit at the end of the day, and feel good about what they did. And that they decide to excel at it. The boy was born with a gun in his hand. So there was no doubt he'll be good at it. He has promised me that this is exactly how he feels about his decision. What does the mother of an 18 year old boy say? What can you say? Somehow, "your grounded" doesn't quite fit this situation. This mom chose to practice what she preached all those years. I chose and promised him to be the Best/Coolest Darn Army Mom on the planet.
Dustin has grown up in this community. He loves it so much that no one ever thought he would leave. In the end, his love and passion for this country became away for him to see that he could give back in a bigger way. Dustin has a sister (Shelby 16) and a brother (Dylan 14) who love him very much and also have been affected by this decision. However, deep down he knows that his town, family, and friends will take care of each other while he is gone. He also knows that we will all be here waiting for him when he comes home. The three of them understand that he will not be here for many of his brother and sisters special moments, but that we will be there on his behalf and try to share them with him as much as possible.
My husband (Paul), Dustin, and I have had so many request for him to keep in touch and let people know when he will be home. I already have one blog and thought that a blog designated for Dustin would be the easiest way to do that. Let's be honest, writing is not his strong point. I am not even sure he will write me regularly, let alone anyone else. I also felt that it would be a good way to pass on information as we learn it in regards to "how the Army works". Maybe it will help some other mom or dad going through what we are. Let's face it, there are a lot of unknowns. Will he be able to call or write? What happens after basic training? Can we send him cards? My head is spinning already. The truth is I am learning myself. I will try my best to keep everyone informed. I do encourage you to leave your positive (I do mean positive) comments, feedback, and prayers. I am just getting this blog started and it may take a little time to work out all the wrinkles, as I am only an amateur. Some moms have hobbies such as knitting. This mom blogs. There is no profit in it for me. Just always loved writing. Finally, I just want to say, on behalf of my family, thank you from the very bottom of our hearts. We love all of you so much and are truly humbled by everything. We are also truly grateful to those service members and families who are working hard or given their life to defend the freedoms we have today. God bless you all. God bless the U.S.A., Hooah, and Go Army:)
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