By Shell aka “Steve’s Mom”
It’s that time of year again, and once again I am blessed to have my sailor home. But so many military families don’t. I am amazed at the strength that these mothers, wives and siblings have. And I hope that I have even just a touch of that when my son is deployed.
I know that at this time of year it is so important to let our servicemembers, veterans, and their families know how much they are appreciated. But braving North Dakota’s -10 degree wind-chill to set wreaths on veterans’ graves seemed pretty insignificant until I noticed a 90-year-old lady sitting in the shelter with a content look, peeking over her bright red and green scarf. As I handed her some lukewarm hot chocolate, she nodded to “out there” and said, “my husband, son and brother thank you.”
I guess every little bit DOES count.
It’s hard to believe that it takes weeks to send a letter when I can hop on my computer and instantly talk with a servicemember overseas. I can post a video telling a complete stranger how much their service and family’s sacrifices mean to me. I can join websites that offer information and friendship, like NAVYForMoms.com, and read real time blogs about our soldiers and sailors all over the world.
One way to wish our troops and veterans a happy holiday is to post a video of support. You can post a video and view other holiday video messages here.
Your video will be posted within 24 hours of submission. View mine below:
Another great way to support our servicemembers is to get involved with veterans groups in your area. Get involved with a group near you, by filling out the form. Click here.
If you’d like to send a care package, the best way to do this is to partner with a family or friend of someone deployed. Sending generic care packages to units or “any soldier” are no longer accepted.
So to all our servicemembers: Happy Holidays, thank you, and we wish you were home. And to our servicemember’s families: When I hug my sailor this Christmas, I am holding yours in my heart.
