Military moms: Sharing the holidays with a soldier

Dec 17, 2012 8:00 AM by Michelle Maffei

Posted in Parenting / Parenting Tips & Advice / Mom & Dad

Giving Thanks To The Troops This Holiday

The holidays can be tough when you have a child serving in the military; but these military moms share that their pride can outshine their heartache, even when the distance between them and their soldiers span oceans. However, this time of year is the perfect time for those of us back home to share your appreciation to the soldiers and their military parents, so take a moment to read their stories and send some thanks of your own.

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Nickie Shawley Somerset, Pennsylvania

How do I feel having my son in the United States Army? I am so very proud of his service, dedication, and commitment to his unit — the 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 'Rakkasans,' 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). Just because we are in the midst of the holidays does not change that at all; however, it does intensify some of the other emotions that come with being an Army mom — anxiety, loneliness and the ever-present desire to have my soldier home.

Army moms think about their soldiers all the time, but the holidays seem to hold more 'triggers.' For example, seeing his special ornaments on the tree makes me wonder what he is doing now. Making cookies fills my mind with memories of baking with him in the past. Looking at his empty stocking simply brings me to tears knowing that he will not be there Christmas morning. Do I miss him? Yes! Would I ever ask him to give up his military pursuits? Never! No matter what time of the year it is, my heart will always be with SPC Phillip Shawley, but this year I am especially grateful that my son — along with many other service members — is standing guard so that families all over the United States can experience a peaceful Christmas. I respect his decision to serve at this time and will continue to support him all year long.

Check out these must-read tips for military families: Survival guide >>

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Tags: holidays and celebrations military

Comments

Comments on "Military moms: Sharing the holidays with a soldier"

Thank you all who have loved ones in the military. I know your family is doing without so our families back home can stay safe! My gratitude is infinite!

Thank you Michelle for sharing our stories. Happy Holidays.

I too have a 10th Mountain soldier with a deployment on the horizon so this Christmas means more than any other to me. I have the utmost respect for our soldiers, their wives, children and most of all their mommas. A million "thank you's" to every soldier serving or have served and their families. Happy Holidays!

Beautiful stories, thank you! My appreciation goes out to all the soldiers and there loved ones.