Take a moment

I received an email today from a friend who just travelled to San Diego to watch his son graduate from Marine Boot Camp. I come from the America that had a draft. Yep, that's right! Turn 18 and wham bam thank you maam you are now a soldier. I'm not sure anyone under the age of 45 even remembers that America had a draft?

The email started, "my son left a boy, and came home a man!" I agree with this statement but the irony of it is... they are still boys. I don't mean that in a derogatory way because by all means they are men, and women in courage and in what they now do as professionals! However, still 18. But now - responsible for multi million dollar equipment, responsible for the safety of people they don't even know, responsible for lives of those around them. Imagine, holding someones life in your hands at 18! Make the wrong decision and how many die? 18 and being responsible for multi million dollar jets, ships, tanks and put in situations that most people never face in life. 18! what did you do at 18?

We take these men and women for granted - please, if you meet any of our brave serviceman or women... take a moment and walk up and say thank you. I know their parents would appreciate it!