Don't Ever Forget

Some people will never get to tell their Veteran that they love them.  After the events of Ft Hood - I realize that I need not wait for a special day to tell them.  But since it's Veteran's Day - I didn't want to miss the chance to leave a comment.  Over time I've honored my Father, a proud Marine. My Uncle, Col Jay M. Hill, and this year I thought I'd add another amazing person to that list....

First time I ever laid eyes on Michael Doxstader at the airport - I stood there in awe.  He was just returning home for a short leave from his first of 2 Tours to Iraq.  He was tall, handsome, and dressed in his military gear.  He stood there larger than life.  I watched his mother hold back the tears of relief and joy.  I watched his family wrap their arms around him - and decorate him with red, white and blue leis.  I watched his little nephew Grant look up at 'Gikey' and seen in his eyes the word 'hero'.  Today - after being his mom in law for well, forever it seems (because I can't remember life without Mike in our family), I want him to know how much I honor him, and absolute adore him, and even well, kinda love him  just a bit.  There is the Mike that comes and eats my Sunday roasts and never complains.  Then there's the Mike, the Soldier, that laces up those size 13 1/2 boots in a perfect form and straps on his gear.  He is fierce on the outside - but so tender underneath it all.  When I look at his eyes - I can only imagine all that they've had to see.  When I see him tenderly holding my daughter's hand all these years, I can only imagine them holding those that didn't make it home in those strong hands.  When I see those huge shoulders - I can only imagine the weight they 've had to bear.  Today - I honor you.  All that you are, all that you have become, and all that you represent.  You are a Warrior, you are my daughter's forever love, and you are always, one of my sons.  Thanks for all you do to keep the world a safer place. Love, Bob

*Lee Lee - thanks for bringing home such an adorable, stray dog, grillin' machine, pervert, gentleman, dirty tongue, motorcycle dawg, muscle maniac, chick flick seeing, MILF fan, handsome dork.... we all love him.

Don't forget to tell your favorite Veteran that YOU love them today!