It was very difficult to choose a ‘word’ to fit this particular post. There were so many that came to mind…hero, honorable, sacrificial, selfless, brave…these ‘words’ and numerous others only touch the surface to describe the man I want to show my gratitude for. It’s hard to say ‘man’ because he’s like a son to me which keeps him forever a ‘boy’ in my heart…though he has earned the title ‘man’ many times over during the last 4 years. 
I met AJB (what my family calls him since he shares the same first/middle name as my firstborn which can be confusing) when he was around 12 years old. He was one of the kids at our church and eventually came to be like one of my own. I’ve been fortunate enough to watch him grow from tween…to young adult…and ultimately to the man he is today. I consider it a privilege to have been allowed to share these special years of his life and appreciate his mom sharing him with my family. (Luv ya M!)
Shortly before AJB was to turn 18 he let us know that he’d joined the Marines and would be going to boot-camp soon after his birthday. It wasn’t an easy thing to hear though we tried to be supportive (and to talk him out of it-lol) but it was what he wanted/needed to do and his decision was made. A few months later he left for San Diego and all too soon he was trained and ready to be shipped overseas.
His first tour was in Iraq (about 3 years ago), then he had a short break and his second tour was served in Afghanistan. (Click here to read a magazine article about AJB and his unit) During these long and difficult months we kept in touch via email and a few phone calls though AJB was constantly in our thoughts and prayers (one of the biggest prayers I had was that he’d never feel alone no matter where or what he was doing).
Each time the news would report an injury or death from a soldier in our area we’d hold our breath until we heard he was safe…especially after he’d shared stories of bullets whizzing by his head, friends being shot and/or killed and what a miracle it was he survived the many life or death situations he faced.
I’d like to take some time today to personally thank AJB for his service, bravery, selflessness and sacrifice. He endured conditions no one should face and gave up years of his life he’ll never get back. All that time away from home cost him plenty of heartache both on and off the battlefield. While he was away and I was having a bad day I’d think of him and what he faced on any given day and suddenly my problems seemed insignificant in those moments.
Ephesians 1:16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
AJB was officially released from the Marines on Friday and arrived home Sunday afternoon. What a blessing it is that God brought him back to us and I can’t wait to see what he does next…I’ll consider it an honor if I get to be part of it!
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Great post, Bridget. And a special thanks to AJB for his courage, sacrifice, and honor. It’s men and women like these who stand in the breach that we all can be safe and free.
Tears of gratitude & joy are falling as I type. Thank God for these wonderful, incredible brave young men and women who are serving our country to keep us safe. Best Wishes to AJB, may you continue to have a blessed life.
Thanks for reminding us of the sacrifices that are being made every day by those serving our country. We can not take it for granted. All the best to your “son!”
andrew’s out?! permanently?!?!!!! oh, that’s so good to finally hear!
Going with my family to get ice cream. Knowing that I can walk down the street and go where and when I want. All because of those who have served. Thank you to AJB and for the men and women of our armed forces who have served and are serving to make sure we have these freedoms.
Thank you all for leaving comments and for your support. I just saw AJB and I can’t tell you how amazing it is to know he’s home for good this time. Lots of hugs and food were had by all!
Glad to know Andrew is home for good, and thanks Andrew for serving and protecting your country