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Two weeks ago, my 18-year old son came home and announced that he had enlisted in the Army. This morning, we dropped him off to go to processing and basic training. It has been an emotional morning to say the least! For Mom and Dad.

Although going to school to be a paramedic (he is already an EMT and volunteer firefighter), he was impatient to get started in emergency care, so he signed up to be a combat medic. And airborne. And because of his high test scores, he is also qualified for some more "interesting" options if he makes it that far. He also recognized his lack of personal disciple and focus and sloppy habits was going to hold him back and figured the Army would fix that.

I am in that zone only parents can know. A strong mixture of pride and worry. He was mature enough to know he wanted to change and bold enough to do it on his own. I think Uncle got a good boy to do the job and expect I will see a good man in about 9 weeks or so!

My biggest issue was the sudden realization that I am though raising him! I thought I would have a couple of more years of input!

Vann,

You have much to be proud of. Also, don't think for one minute that you are through "raising" him. You will always be his father and I doubt you will ever stop being an influence on him. As he lives his life he will forever more encounter things that prove you right and he'll be reminded of the guidance you gave him.

May he always return safely back to Mom and Dad.


DSKYZD

Vann

Congratulations to you and your son on an important time in your lives. It sounds like he is already mature enough to realize his own shortcomings, and about wanting to do something to improve. Many adults do not have that self awareness.

Coincidentally, I accompanied my oldest son (16) to a meeting the other night on the service academies (West Point, Annapolis, etc.) It was hosted by the local congressman (a Republican). I have no idea if he will actually go through with it, but at least he was thinking beyond his next meal, which is a positive development for him. He really wants to go to Annapolis, at least for now. It would certainly solve my problem of how to pay for college!

Your son made a good choice. Let's hope that he makes the best out of it. The Army's old motto was Be All That You Can Be and it was true then as it is true now. Sure, he'll run into a few morons, but that's just life.

I've a few things to regret about. I never regretted my time in the Army.

WNC -
Your son sounds like a great guy. God bless him and your family and all our fine professional servicemen and women and their families.
These are tough times, it's people like your son that will help get us through them.
I was never in the service but I have supreme respect for all that serve.
Mike

Vann -
Bless your son and all others brave enough to keep us safe. May he return whole and sound.

Vann,

When I joined the Army, I was worthless as a person. The Army saved my life. That simple.

When my daughter joined I told her three things to be watchful for: First, there are kids from 50 states and other countries with different attitudes, behaviors and belief systems; different cultures and family/community experiences. Be open and accepting. Second, many cannot adjust to Army rigors-recognize that many fail but that does not make them a failure. Last, develop a reputation for doing what you say you will do, helping those who need your help, and accepting help graciously from those with skills you do not have.

Finally, I told her that while she might be smarter than some of her drill sergeants or officers, she was not more experienced than they.

And for the Dad--- when your son returns he will be different, but he will want dad, and mom, and family and friends, and home and hearth to be unchanged! He will need an anchor to his past as well as acceptance of his new found stature.

HTH

Respectfully,

Mike Cam

Vann, He sounds like a wonderful young man, I know it is tough to see them go. I have posted this before but am very proud of our military back ground Here is a painting presented to me at our eldest son's retirement party, the artist took all of our "Boot camp" pictures and created this. Den
Back row Son, USMC ( Retired) Myself US Army
Front row Son, USCG (senior Chief) Son, US AF



I am also very proud of my brother, a guy you would want on your side

Vann,

I have huge respect for your son. I'd bet this will be a turning point in his life. I'll pray for his safty. I think you said it all re. the mixture of pride & worry.

Den,

Great post, great family. Youv'e alot to be proud of.

Thanks for all the words guys. I am very proud of him. Mike, I wish I had been able to show him your post before we dropped him off! I think I will print it out and mail it to him, when I get an address.

Den - great photo! Impressive family portrait. Your family has certainly done their share of service to the rest of us. And your brother seems to have been quite a soldier. You are justifiably proud!

Congrats! Airbourne combat medic!

Makes our work days seem a little drab huh?

There is nothing finer than seeing our children grab life by the you know whats and swing it around.

Vann, congratulations, and THANKS for your service.

Let us know how the kid does, and if he needs care packages from your virtual buddies.

Congrats! Rest assured that we always come back and appreciate our parents even more after boot camp. HooRah!!