A few years ago I and the girls took a trip to Georgia for Jeff’sgraduation from Basic. It was a bittersweet trip. It was exciting to go to a military installation. It was the first time I had stepped foot on one since I got out of the Army in 2003. It brought up so many unresolved struggles within me.
I had not been to Fort Benning since BG graduated from his military school there. So it brought up those emotionally embedded memories. It also brought up something else I have struggled with for a while.
I have shared before that I struggle with being a “proud veteran” I have never bought anything that would define me as a veteran. But this trip really stirred something inside of me.
So I proudly bought 3 items that designate me as a Veteran. It gave me the warm fuzzies to buy those things. I don’t’ think I will ever shout it from the mountain tops but I will not hide it in the corner anymore
It was so powerful to be at his graduation ceremony that was at the National Infantry Museum. To be around such significant history was so powerful. At the graduation, they asked the Veterans to stand up and I proudly stood up. It was so cool to take pride and not have the “I am a Veteran but an MST survivor” mentality. I AM A PROUD VETERAN.
At the end, they read the Soldiers Creed. I silently read it. I look around and noticed that the other Army vets were standing up. I thought to stand but I kinda felt a little out of place to do it mid-sentence. I did not beat myself up about it is what it is. Just because I did not stand up does not mean it does not have the same meaning.
Since that trip almost 3 years ago I have been able to proudly tell people that I am a Veteran. It is so refreshing. Take Care. Much Love
