My son was not 18 when he signed up for the Army Reserves in 2003. I remember going with him to the Reserve Office to sign the papers. I was the one who was nervous, he said "I want to do this Mom". He was my baby, my only Son. I raised him alone, I was never more proud. I continue to marvel and amaze at the strength of my Son. I do not know what happens when our troops deploy, when they are gone for months and months, I only know that the sacrifice they provide for our Country and for our Freedom is the greatest gift. My soSon is my Hero.

Melissa Hands
Scottsdale, AZ