This Veterans Day meant so much more than the previous years. On the side, stood my 7-year-old Steven Rodriguez holding a picture frame of his father who is serving in Afghanistan. He wore camouflage fatigues that are a replica of his fathers, which he had specially made for Steven, before his deployment. It was my sons "last minute" idea as we loaded the car, to get the flag that we fly all year round in the front of our home. He held that flag & picture through the whole parade. As I stood there taking pictures, we were over whelmed with all the veterans & others attendees with their approach. Steven would salute & give a hand shake. While we received hugs & GOD BLESS YOU'S I teared up. As an Army wife, I hear/see things that others don't. We didn't know any of the victims from the attack at Ft. Hood, but it hit home. We are ALL family. So even if you feel embarrassed, a simple "thank you" means so much to our current & retired men/women of armed forces. Along with the silent ranks of Military wives/husbands...
So may God Bless all our brave & bring them home safely.
Erica Villanueva
