🇺🇸The Toughest Goodbye: Reflections of a Veteran Parent

Today, as we commemorate Veterans Day, my thoughts wander back to one of the hardest moments of my life - the day I had to leave for deployment, leaving behind my 2-year-old son. 

#VeteransDay isn't just about parades & gratitude; it's about acknowledging the deep sacrifices made not only by those in uniform but by their families too. 

Serving in the military is a profound honor, yet it comes with its own set of challenges. When you're called to serve, you're not just stepping into a uniform; you're stepping away from your life at home, from your loved ones, from moments you can never reclaim. 

My son was just beginning to understand the world around him, exploring with the innocent curiosity of a toddler, and there I was, packing my gear, knowing I'd miss out on his laughter, his warm hugs and so many milestones. 

I'm grateful he was too young to remember those days I was gone, but my heart still aches with the memories of the multiple trips I was fond. Every time I see him now, there's a part of me that wonders about the experiences we missed together, the bonding moments that were sacrificed for my duty.

The emotional toll on veterans is well-documented - the stress of service, the fear of combat, the struggle of readjustment. But less spoken of is the silent heroism of our families, especially our children, who grow up with a piece of their heart deployed alongside us. 

To my fellow veterans, and to all the military families out there, know that your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. The strength it takes to serve, to leave your family, to face the unknown, and then to come back and rebuild those connections - it's a testament to your resilience and love.

Let's honor not just the service but the sacrifices. And let's support each other in weaving back those threads of family life that duty so often frays. 

Below is when I kissed my son goodbye  for my deployment  and then seeing him for the first time back in the airport.
#VeteransDay