Off to Fort Benning

[Retired JM]

Today is the big day for my son. He pushes out to the Fort Benning School for Wayward Youth. I'm gonna miss him fiercely. Hell, we haven't taken him to the recruiting station yet and I'm missing him already.

But it has to happen - It's time for him to go out and make his own way in the world. I envy him his youth and vigor, remembering the day I first started down the path from home. I hope he finds a bright light to follow as the lights from home grow dim in the distance and the path ahead becomes hard to follow. I hope that he always looks forward, with only the occasional glance back to see where he's been. I hope that he finds someone to walk with him, not in front of him or behind him but along side him and help him bear his burden. I wish him a long, long, happy walk along the path.

[edgecrusher]

Tell him we wish him well.

Bravery. Honor. Respect. Compassion.

[washguy]

Hi  JM    I wish him well! The words you spoke are wonderful!      Wash

[Matt.Cross]

I'm glad to hear it, and I wish him well. One of my biggest regrets in hindsight is not serving in the military. I certainly respect and appreciate those who choose or have chosen to serve.

[392heminut]

JM, I wish your son well. Mine will be taking those same steps in a few months and it will be a hard thing for me but I know that his honor and integrity will carry him through, as will your son's.

[unforgiven]

God bless these young men,hope they return the same way they left.God's speed. <thumbsup>

[BLKSHEEP]

God bless these young men,hope they return the same way they left.God's speed. <thumbsup>

Generally I find they come back better men,Good luck to you and your son JM <thumbsup>

[Retired JM]

Thanks, all. I'll keep y'all posted as he makes his way through OSUT. He's currently scheduled for a mid-June graduation. It'll be good to see the "Mothership" again. I'm planning on taking him to the Fourwinds cafe for a Rangerburger and fries as his graduation lunch/dinner.

[crom.a.boo]

I hope he finds a bright light to follow as the lights from home grow dim in the distance and the path ahead becomes hard to follow. I hope that he always looks forward, with only the occasional glance back to see where he's been. I hope that he finds someone to walk with him, not in front of him or behind him but along side him and help him bear his burden. I wish him a long, long, happy walk along the path.

Beautifully said, and I would like to express my eternal gratitude to your son and all who choose the path of service. I agree with Matt that one of my biggest (and only) regrets in life is failing to enlist when I had the opportunity. Congratulations and all the best.

[Robocop1051]

Only a son can pull at his fathers heart strings like we do. I'm glad to see another proud father amongst our group. Give you son my best wishes as well. I'll add his safety to my prayers.

[Retired JM]

Again, many thanks. He got to Benning last night around 10 PM EST. He starts in-processing this morning. There's a cycle that picks up on 9 MAR, but I don't think he'll maje that one. More likely his cycle will begin 16 MAR with a graduation date of 22 Jun. 13 weeks of fun and games in the south Georgia heat and humidity!

[unforgiven]

Their is no doubt they will return stronger,smarter,and more mature.We just pray they return in one piece.