I would look every mother in the eye and say, “You have raised a man/woman you can be proud of! I want you to know that your sons/daughters are not alone. They are with other sons/daughters serving our country and are out here doing amazing things! We miss you, but want you to know that wherever we are, you are always in our hearts.”

Finally, what makes your mother special?

My mom is my best friend and my guiding light. She has always taught me right from wrong but let me make my own choices. She let me experience things for myself and was always there to comfort me when life threw a curve ball. She has always put her boys first and is the reason I have become the man I am today! I would be happy to be half the parent she is, and want her to know that no matter how far away I am, she will always be home.

I love you, Mom, and thank you for always being there!

Your Loving Son, Josh