Another Son Heads For the Army

This morning it's Brad's turn. He is on a van heading for Evansville Indiana and then routes to Indianapolis to catch a flight to Atlanta before landing in Columbus Ga. and more specifically Ft Benning. Like his brother Andy, Brad is getting ready for intensive basic & AI training to become a soldier in the US Army. I sit here wondering, how did we become such a military family? I know that I had a grandfather who was a Navy Sea Bee and Kelly's father was also in the Navy but I never dreamed of having two sons who set their sites on becoming soldiers. I don't recall any GI Joes in their toy boxes. Kelly wasn't big on toy guns when they were little either, although I think they were inclined to use their imagine to fashion weapons out of sticks, broom handles, etc. I am very proud of them and also scared at the same time. What a dangerous time to volunteer with all the troubles in the Middle East. A year ago we were sending off Andy and feel extra proud of the man he is becoming. I know the discipline and structure have made a big difference. Next week he also heads to Benning for Army Ranger school, which is quite an honor to be recommended. I know that Brad has what it takes to become a great soldier. I may sound like a proud Papa when I say this but- the Army is very fortunate to be getting such a young man to serve and protect our country. In the end, while enlisting is not the first counsel we would offer to our sons when considering a life-path, I know it's what they strongly feel they must do. We proudly support them in this decision and yet it is tempered with much prayer for a hedge of protection about them and godly wisdom to make wise choices with each opportunity that comes their way. May God bless all of our troops who serve all around the world.